Luka Doncic and the Los Angeles Lakers captured a win 120-119 Wednesday night against the Indiana Pacers in the Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Doncic missed a floater to win the game, but it was tapped in by LeBron James just before the buzzer. The Lakers were fueled by Doncic’s 34 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists on 52.4% shooting with six three-pointers made.
After the exhilarating road win that halted the Lakers’ three-game losing streak, Los Angeles had a decision to make the next day. Thursday marked the end of guard Jordan Goodwin’s two-way contract, which meant the Lakers were forced to sign him to a deal for the rest of the season and cut another player or let Goodwin go.
As a result, Goodwin was signed to a two-year deal, and forward Cam Reddish, who has played in just two games since the beginning of February, was let go. The Lakers made the move official on social media.
After the Lakers’ announcement, Doncic took to Instagram to support his teammate.
Since signing a two-way contract with the Lakers, Goodwin has averaged 6.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.6 steals on 47.0% shooting across 19 appearances. Goodwin also has recorded at least one offensive rebound in 18 out of his 19 games played with the Lakers, showing the grit and hustle he displays on a nightly basis (via ESPN).
Head coach JJ Redick is on record giving high praise for Goodwin regardless of his stats. After a win against the Phoenix Suns on March 16, Redick discussed the formerly undrafted player’s impact in the win.
Never judge a player based solely on his box score,” said Redick. “Jordan Goodwin was incredible tonight and he had two points and four fouls. He set the tone for us.”
