Suns Begin Contract Talks With Collin Gillespie and Jordan Goodwin

The Phoenix Suns have begun negotiations with guards Collin Gillespie and Jordan Goodwin as they look to finalize their roster for the upcoming season. According to Jake Fischer of The People's Insider, the team is in active talks with both players. Multiple NBA sources suggest that other teams are already operating under the assumption that both will return to Phoenix.

Gillespie, who played a key role off the bench last season, averaged 12.7 points and 4.6 assists per game. His ability to run the offense and create for teammates made him a valuable asset during the Suns' playoff run. Goodwin, meanwhile, averaged 8.7 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. His energy and defensive presence provided a spark off the bench.

With the Suns entering a critical phase of their rebuild, retaining depth players like Gillespie and Goodwin could be a strategic move. Both players are set to become free agents this summer and are expected to seek new opportunities if the Suns' cap situation doesn't allow for a return. The team currently has over $80 million committed to eight players, limiting flexibility in the short term.

Gillespie signed with the Suns in February 2023 on a two-way contract before earning a standard deal in July. He played in 39 games last season, starting six of them. Goodwin was signed in December 2022 and appeared in 47 games. His 47 games played represent the most of any Suns bench player not named Goodwin.

Jake Fischer reports that the Suns are expected to make a decision on both players by early July. That timeline aligns with the start of free agency on July 1. If the talks fall through, the Suns may look to move on from both, potentially opening up cap space or assets for a midseason addition.

The Suns will have their first chance to test the market in a few weeks when free agency begins. Their ability to retain or replace Gillespie and Goodwin could shape the team's approach to the rest of the summer.