Phoenix Suns rule out Jordan Goodwin, Jalen Green’s status looms vs. Los Angeles Lakers

Jalen Green and Jordan Goodwin left the game with lower-body injuries. Goodwin did not return, while Green was seen on the court before the third quarter attempting to work through his injury before ultimately heading back to the locker room.

According to Arizona Central’s Duane Rankin, Green is listed as questionable with right knee soreness as the Suns prepare to face the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night, with a possibility the guard could return before the end of the regular season. However, Goodwin was ruled out, alongside All-Star Devin Booker and Haywood Highsmith, with a sprained left ankle.

Suns injury report at Lakers:

OUT: Devin Booker (right ankle injury management), Jordan Goodwin (left ankle sprain) and Haywood Highsmith (right knee injury management).

QUESTIONABLE: Jalen Green (right knee soreness). #Suns pic.twitter.com/eECcXrZtVv

— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) April 10, 2026

Oct 14, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Jordan Goodwin (23) against the Los Angeles Lakers during an NBA preseason game at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

With a play-in position locked in at No. 7, Phoenix is prioritizing health over urgency and preserving peak performance for the games that will ultimately define its season.

Goodwin’s absence raises additional concern, with no timeline for his return and the severity of his sprain unknown. Known for his perimeter defense, energy and 3-point shooting, if he does not return before the play-in, the Suns could begin their postseason push without a primary contributor.

Suns guard Jalen Green (4) celebrates a three pointer against the Clippers during a game at the Mortgage Matchup Center on Nov. 6, 2025. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Green’s questionable status adds another variable, as he has missed much of the season with a hamstring injury. Preserving his health in games that will not affect positioning, but rather momentum, appears to be a trade-off Phoenix is willing to make to ensure players are as healthy as possible when it matters most.

Players want to compete, especially against opponents like the Lakers. But it is the organization’s responsibility to ensure they are at their best when it matters — resisting the urge to push through minor injuries.

Nov 28, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Jordan Goodwin (23) shoots a three point basket as Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) defends during the second quarter at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

The Suns and Lakers face off Friday at 7:30 p.m.