The Miami Heat were gifted Jordan Goodwin after the Lakers cut him to sign Marcus Smart. Los Angeles had to free up salary to make room for the former Defensive Player of the Year, and Goodwin had only a small amount of guaranteed money on his contract. The 6’3 guard showed flashes last season and could become a key rotation piece in Miami just like Davion Mitchell did last season.
Goodwin has struggled to find a consistent role after going undrafted in 2021. He spent time with the Wizards, Suns, and Grizzlies before joining the Lakers. The 26-year-old is in his prime. He was a strong point of attack defender with an improved jump shot in LA. If Goodwin takes another step, he could be a steady rotation piece impacting play on both ends of the floor.
The Heat have an open roster spot and a history of turning unwanted players into key pieces. Pat Riley is keeping his powder dry in hopes of acquiring a star, so filling their final spot with a minimum contract with upside is ideal.
Jordan Goodwin could be the Heat’s next undrafted find
Goodwin averaged 5.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 1.0 steal in 18.7 minutes per game over 29 contests. He rebounds well, keeps the ball moving, and has flashes as an on-ball defensive stopper. The Heat love players who compete and have versatility. Goodwin fits that mold.
The 6’3 guard would be fighting for minutes in a crowded backcourt. Tyler Herro, Norman Powell, Davion Mitchell, Terry Rozier, and rookie Kasparas Jakucionis all expect playing time. There won’t be enough to go around with everyone healthy, but Goodwin could blossom into the 3-and-D wing every NBA covets.
The 26-year-old would have to accept the minimum. It would be a prove-it contract, and there is no better place to do that than South Beach. The Heat are not afraid to play someone making the minimum over a high-priced option if they think the cheaper player gives them a better chance to win. Goodwin could prove to be a 38 percent 3-point shooter that holds up well defensively. It is a massive ask, but the risk is tiny.
Lakers fans were sad to see Jordan Goodwin go, but it was the cost of acquiring Marcus Smart. It gifted the Miami Heat have a shot to add a solid rotation player. Goodwin still has room to grow on both ends of the floor. He could be the Heat’s next breakout find, and the front office should already be calling his agent.