PHOENIX — The Phoenix Suns are shoring up their 2025-26 roster as a week remains before their season opener against the Sacramento Kings, and a preseason favorite didn’t make the cut.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!ESPN insider Shams Charania reported Friday that Phoenix cut Jared Butler and signed Jordan Goodwin, as the two were reportedly engaged in a training camp battle for the Suns’ 14th roster spot.
Oct 14, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Jared Butler (25) against the Los Angeles Lakers during an NBA preseason game at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Butler was a darling out of preseason, finishing with an impressive 35 points, seven rebounds and nine assists against the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday.
The 25-year-old guard displayed dynamic scoring and playmaking prowess, and many thought he was well on his way to a roster spot.
Why Suns chose Goodwin over Butler
Taking a step back and analyzing the Suns’ needs, though, Goodwin, a gritty, culture-setting defender fits Phoenix’s needs and identity.
Butler was cut alongside David Duke Jr., and Phoenix is going into the season with 14 rostered and three two-way players. Teams can roster up to 15 players, but keeping one spot open is a common practice to maximize roster flexibility.
Oct 14, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) grabs a rebound against Phoenix Suns guard Jordan Goodwin (23) and forward Rasheer Fleming (20) during an NBA preseason game at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Fans won’t be able to see a full Suns roster on opening night just yet, as recently-acquired star guard Jalen Green is expected to miss with a lingering hamstring injury.
Sacramento comes into town to open the season against Phoenix in the Mortgage Matchup Center on Wednesday, Oct. 22, at 7 p.m. PT.
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