PHOENIX — The Phoenix Suns are rounding out their 2025-26 roster, which means some crucial cuts had to be made.
ESPN insider Shams Charania reported Friday that guards Jordan Goodwin and Jared Butler were competing in a training camp battle for Phoenix’s 14th roster spot.
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
The Suns opted for Goodwin, signing him to a roster spot and cutting Butler and David Duke Jr. just under a week before Wednesday’s season opener.
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; Phoenix Suns guard Jordan Goodwin (23) defends against Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) during an NBA preseason game at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Phoenix claimed Goodwin off of waivers in free agency in late July after the Lakers were unable to retain the 26-year-old journeyman.
Goodwin averaged 12.5 points, 3.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 19.0 minutes per game in four preseason appearances. Good-looking stats, but what jumps out about Goodwin’s game is his relentless effort every single minute he steps on the floor.
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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