Fitting In With The Suns
The Phoenix Suns are infatuated with dual-guard lineups. Combo guards Eric Bledsoe and Brandon Knight (assuming the Suns pay up for their restricted free agent this summer) represent the future of the backcourt. To be able to find a permanent place in this team’s lineup, Goodwin may need to tweak his game a little bit to become more versatile.
That’s not to say Goodwin needs to become a full-on point guard, but logging minutes at the 1 is only going to enhance his passing skills, which, as Hornacek explained, will make him that much more difficult to defend when he attacks the basket.
As for Archie himself, he doesn’t seem to have a problem with being played out of his natural position.
“I have a high IQ, I feel, so I’m able to adjust to the situation and whatever coach wants me to do I’ll do,” he said. “So whether it’s me being the 1 or the 2 I just try to adapt to the guys and I know how they play.”
As the youngest player on the roster, it’s encouraging that Goodwin is starting to get more consistent minutes. The Suns may not reach the playoffs, but since they’re still in the hunt, this team’s young players are getting their opportunity AND playing meaningful minutes at the same time.
“Definitely, with experience comes rewards I guess is what you’d say,” Goodwin said. “You know, with continuing to get more playing time I get used to things and I get to see things develop more and it’s helping me out.”
There’s no question he’s starting to harness that potential while playing at two different positions. The next step, according to Goodwin? Building that reputation, which might help him out in an area that’s been slightly frustrating him lately.
“Now if I could get a freaking call,” he joked after the Knicks game. “It’s making my field goal percentage look bad!”
Next: Suns Recap: Suns Regroup From Bad First Half To Down Knicks