As the Lakers continue their remarkable 20-4 surge since mid-January, these roster decisions loom larger by the day.
If Los Angeles promotes Jordan Goodwin and Trey Jemison to standard contracts, the Lakers will have to make corresponding moves. In terms of what the most likely move could be, Cam Reddish is the most likely candidate and possibly the only one to be waived.
Goodwin has clearly earned his place in the playoff rotation with his lockdown defense and surprising offensive efficiency. Meanwhile, Reddish, who will be an unrestricted free agent this summer, has not played since January 28. The veteran wing was part of the failed trade with Charlotte for Mark Williams. If Kleber is not available for the playoffs, it may make sense for the Lakers to promote Jemison as well. Len would be next in line to be waived in that case, as he is also an unrestricted free agent this summer. The Lakers are $893,000 from being hardcapped at the second apron, meaning they can sign Goodwin and Jemison to standard contracts at any point.
Regardless, don't expect LA to make any roster moves until the last moment as they decide what to do. Morris could be waived, but Redick has praised the veteran's leadership despite his limited role.
"He's been awesome," Redick told Khobi Price of the OC Register about Morris. "He's been great on the bench talking with guys, making sure our bench energy is good. I told him the other day, we see it, and we appreciate it, and we all just value what he's doing right now from that aspect of leadership."
Feb 28, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Jordan Goodwin (30) reacts after a basket during the second quarter against the LA Clippers at Crypto.com Arena. © Jason Parkhurst-Imagn Images © Jason Parkhurst-Imagn Images
The Lakers' front office now faces some consequential choices about which players to keep for the postseason push. With the team clicking at precisely the right time and Dončić integrating seamlessly alongside LeBron, converting Goodwin from his two-way deal appears to be not just likely, but essential for the Lakers' championship aspirations.
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This story was originally published March 8, 2025 at 12:43 PM.