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Suns Coach Explains Gillespie's Reduced Role, Praises Goodwin's Impact

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, April 5th 2026 at 23:56 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, CANADA

Phoenix, AZ - April 6th, 2026 - The Phoenix Suns have been a team in constant flux this season, experimenting with rotations and seeking the optimal lineup to contend for a championship. Recent changes, notably the diminishing role of guard Benning Gillespie and the expanded opportunities for forward Jordan Goodwin, have sparked considerable discussion amongst fans and analysts. Assistant coach Jordan Ott shed light on these decisions during a recent appearance on the Locked On Suns podcast, revealing a pragmatic approach rooted in performance and the pursuit of a cohesive team dynamic.

Ott's core message was clear: Gillespie's reduced playing time wasn't a punitive measure, but rather a strategic adjustment. "Benning wasn't playing the way we needed him to play," Ott stated. "It wasn't anything personal. We just needed more." This 'more' has materialized in the form of Jordan Goodwin, a player whose impact extends beyond simple statistics. Goodwin has quickly become a fan favorite, providing a much-needed boost of energy and a surprising level of rebounding prowess off the bench.

Over the last seven games, Goodwin has averaged an impressive 8.3 points and 5.3 rebounds in just 17.4 minutes. Critically, his efficiency has been remarkably high, shooting 57.1% from the field and a sizzling 45.5% from beyond the three-point line. These numbers aren't merely indicative of a hot streak; they demonstrate a consistent level of play that the Suns clearly value. Goodwin's contributions aren't just about scoring, he's been a key factor in altering the game's momentum with his hustle plays and aggressive rebounding - something the Suns arguably lacked in earlier parts of the season.

However, the situation isn't simply about Goodwin playing better than Gillespie. It highlights a broader struggle for the Suns: a search for identity. The team, brimming with talent including established stars and developing players, hasn't yet fully gelled. "We're trying to figure out who we are," Ott explained. "We've got a lot of talent, but we need to put the pieces together." This statement reveals a coaching staff actively dissecting the team's strengths and weaknesses, searching for the ideal combination of players who complement each other and maximize their collective potential.

The Suns' experimentation with lineups isn't unprecedented in the modern NBA. Many teams prioritize finding the best team fit over simply showcasing individual star power, especially as the playoffs approach. While Gillespie remains a talented player, his style of play may not be currently aligning with what the coaching staff deems necessary for the team's success. It's plausible that his role could evolve again depending on matchups and the evolving needs of the team throughout the playoffs.

The decision to prioritize Goodwin, a player known for his tenacity and versatility, suggests a shift in the Suns' philosophy. The team appears to be valuing players who can contribute in multiple facets of the game, impacting not just scoring but also rebounding, defense, and energy levels. This is particularly important in the increasingly competitive Western Conference, where physicality and defensive intensity are paramount.

Looking ahead, the Suns face a challenging stretch of games as they vie for playoff positioning. Ott's comments suggest that the coaching staff will continue to evaluate players based on their performance and how they contribute to the overall team dynamic. The balancing act between developing young players like Gillespie and maximizing the potential of a team built to win now is a delicate one. The Suns are clearly hoping that Goodwin's emergence and the ongoing experimentation with lineups will ultimately unlock their full potential and pave the way for a deep playoff run. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining whether this calculated risk pays off and if the Suns can truly 'figure out who they are' before the stakes get even higher.