Suns Announce Unfortunate News During Game 1 Against Thunder

The Phoenix Suns drew a tough first-round matchup against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder. Entering Game 1 of their opening series of the NBA playoffs, optimism in Phoenix remained high because this season has largely been a success.

The franchise entered a new era without superstar Kevin Durant after trading him in the offseason, yet first-year head coach Jordan Ott guided the team back to the postseason.

The Suns also received contributions across the roster, none more impactful than shooting guard Devin Booker, who averaged 26.1 points, 3.9 rebounds and 6.0 assists while shooting 45.6% from the field and 33.0% from beyond the arc across 64 games. Phoenix finished the regular season with a 45-37 record.

Booker was not the only player who helped push the Suns back into the postseason. Jordan Goodwin, claimed off waivers from the Los Angeles Lakers last summer, has been one of the team's best success stories.

The 27-year-old has found a home in Phoenix. Across 70 games, Goodwin averaged 8.7 points, 4.9 rebounds and 2.2 assists while shooting an efficient 37.1% from 3-point range.

He also played a major role in helping the Suns secure their playoff berth, posting 19 points, nine rebounds, two assists and six steals in the play-in win that eliminated the Golden State Warriors.

Unfortunately, his Game 1 appearance ended abruptly. During a second-quarter stint against the Thunder, Goodwin motioned to the bench for a substitution and immediately headed to the locker room.

At halftime, Phoenix announced an update on his status. "INJURY UPDATE: Jordan Goodwin (left calf soreness) will not return," the team wrote on X.

INJURY UPDATE: Jordan Goodwin (left calf soreness) will not return.

— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) April 19, 2026

Goodwin's next chance to return will come Wednesday in Game 2, giving him two days to recover and attempt to suit up. It is an unfortunate setback for a player who has been one of the feel-good stories of the Suns' season. Phoenix is his fourth organization in just five NBA seasons, and this year has easily been the best of his career.

The Suns will hope the injury is not serious, because Goodwin's energy and versatility have made him a valuable piece of the rotation.

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This story was originally published April 19, 2026 at 2:30 PM.