With the 2014-15 campaign written and closed, Suns.com’s Matt Petersen takes an end-season look at each member of Phoenix’s roster heading into the summer. Key points include what went well, what could be improved, and a notable advanced stat for each player are included, as is their offseason status with the team.
MORE REVIEWS: Earl Barron | Eric Bledsoe | Reggie Bullock | Archie Goodwin | Danny Granger | Gerald Green | Brandon Knight | Alex Len | Jerel McNeal | Marcus Thornton | P.J. Tucker | T.J. Warren | Brandan Wright
Archie Goodwin
Bio: 6-5, 198 pounds, 20 years old
History with Suns: Selected 29th overall in the 2013 NBA Draft
2014-15 stats: 13.0 mpg, 5.6 ppg, 1.8 rpg, 1.1 apg
Offseason status: Under contract with Phoenix
What Went Well
Phoenix's midseason trades left a dearth of depth at the point guard position. While the team views Goodwin as perimeter scorer, Suns Head Coach Jeff Hornacek had no alternative but to hand Goodwin the keys when Eric Bledsoe sat.
The Suns' youngest player responded with drastically improved poise and control. He surveyed his options on fast breaks over simply trying to drive all the way himself. He passed up open shots for better ones, be they for himself or his teammates. As a result, his assist rate nearly tripled compared to his rookie season.
Goodwin didn't shelf his athleticism. His ability to slice to the rim is an elite gift, now complemented by a stronger body able to absorb blows from contesting defenders. Most importantly, he continued his constant workout regime, whether it was with the Suns or their D-League affiliate in Bakersfield.
What Could Be Improved
Goodwin's jump shot is still a work in progress, though 29.3 percent from three is a lot better than 13.9 percent (his rookie year mark). Driving to the basket will always be his first option, but Phoenix will need him to keep the Suns honest from the perimeter, especially if he plays with Bledsoe -- their main drive-and-dish option.
Goodwin's eagerness and athleticism can sometimes leave him jumpier than preferred on defense, though he's much more locked in now compared to a year ago. The more he continues to harness his first-rate physical gifts, the more effect he'll have in the Suns' future.
Notable Advanced Stat: Goodwin ranked second on the team in points per 48 minutes on drives to the basket.
Quotable: “I've had a lot of ups and downs. They've made me a better player off and on the court. Being ready and being patient, that's the biggest thing for me. I'm going to continue to work hard, and next year we'll see what happens.” – Archie Goodwin