The Lakers waived Goodwin on July 20 to help pave the way for the team to sign Marcus Smart. Goodwin played in 29 regular-season games during the 2024-25 campaign, averaging 5.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.0 steals per game, shooting 43.8 percent from the floor and a career-high 38.2 percent from beyond the arc.

Last season, Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick wanted his players to play like "banshees" on defense. Now, they've released one of the most aggressive banshees from last season.

Enter Jared Butler. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Butler is joining the Suns on a one-year deal, bringing with him a skill set that mirrors Goodwin’s in many ways: tough, poised, and hungry for an opportunity.