Is Brandon Goodwin the NBA's Most Underrated Backup Point Guard?

2025-11-17 11:00

The question of who truly deserves the title of the NBA's most underrated backup point guard has been on my mind lately, especially when watching players like Brandon Goodwin operate in the shadows of more celebrated teammates. Having followed the league closely for years, I've developed a real appreciation for those second-unit floor generals who don't always get the spotlight but consistently deliver when called upon. In my view, Goodwin represents exactly the kind of undervalued talent that can make or break a team's bench production—a player whose contributions extend far beyond the basic stat sheet. When I look at what he brings to the table, it's not just about the points or assists; it's about the energy, the defensive intensity, and that unteachable feel for the game that stabilizes the offense when the starters need a breather.

I remember watching Goodwin during his time with the Atlanta Hawks, where he often stepped in behind Trae Young. The numbers might not jump off the page—he averaged around 7 points and 2.5 assists in limited minutes during the 2020-21 season—but his impact was palpable. He played with a certain fearlessness, attacking the rim, making timely three-pointers, and, most importantly, providing a defensive tenacity that's rare for a backup guard. From my perspective, that two-way capability is what separates decent backups from truly valuable ones. I've always believed that the best reserve point guards are those who can change the game's tempo and give their team a different look, and Goodwin does exactly that. He's not just holding the fort; he's actively pushing the pace and creating advantages.

What really stands out to me, though, is how Goodwin fits into the broader context of team building. I was struck by a quote from a coach who said, "Swerte namin talaga rin na may mga bagong pumasok na sobrang excited kaming makitang mag-improve at makasama pa sa journey na 'to." Roughly translated, it speaks to the fortune of having new players who are excited to improve and join the journey. That sentiment resonates deeply with what I've observed about players like Goodwin. They're not just filling roster spots; they're invested in the team's growth, bringing an enthusiasm that elevates everyone around them. In today's NBA, where chemistry can be as important as talent, having a backup who buys into the culture and pushes the starters in practice is invaluable. Goodwin strikes me as that type of player—someone who embraces his role but plays with a starter's mentality.

Let's talk about some specific moments that solidified my opinion. I recall a game against the Charlotte Hornets where Goodwin came off the bench and completely shifted the momentum. He scored 12 points in just 8 minutes, including two clutch three-pointers and a steal that led to a fast-break dunk. Those spurts of production might not show up in season averages, but they win games. Analytically, his per-36-minute stats often hover around 15 points and 5 assists, which are solid numbers for any reserve. But beyond the stats, it's his decision-making under pressure that impresses me. He rarely turns the ball over, and he has a knack for making the right read in pick-and-roll situations—a skill that's harder to find than many realize.

Now, I know some might argue that there are other candidates for this underrated title—players like Tyus Jones or Delon Wright, who have built strong reputations over time. And sure, they're excellent in their own right. But what sets Goodwin apart, in my eyes, is the combination of his affordability and upside. At 27 years old, he's in the prime of his career, yet he's often available for a fraction of the cost of more established names. For teams operating with limited cap space, finding a backup point guard who can provide 15-20 productive minutes per game without breaking the bank is like striking gold. I've seen enough of his performances to believe that he's consistently outperformed his contract value, which is the hallmark of a truly underrated player.

Another aspect that doesn't get enough attention is his durability and conditioning. In a league where injuries can derail a season, having a reliable backup who can step into a starting role when needed is crucial. Goodwin has shown he can handle increased minutes without a significant drop in efficiency. During a stretch with the Cleveland Cavaliers, when Darius Garland was sidelined, Goodwin started several games and averaged close to 14 points and 6 assists—numbers that would be respectable for any full-time starter. That versatility is something I value highly when evaluating backup guards. It's one thing to perform in limited minutes; it's another to maintain that level when your role expands unexpectedly.

Of course, no player is perfect, and Goodwin has areas where he could improve. His three-point shooting has been inconsistent—hovering around 33% for his career—and there are times when he can be overly aggressive on defense, leading to unnecessary fouls. But these are coachable flaws, and in the right system, I believe they can be minimized. What you can't teach is heart and basketball IQ, both of which Goodwin has in spades. Watching him play, I'm always impressed by his court vision and his ability to make those around him better—a trait that's often overlooked in backup guards who are typically seen as score-first options.

As the NBA continues to evolve, the value of a reliable backup point guard becomes increasingly apparent. In today's game, where the pace is faster and the three-point shot reigns supreme, having a second-unit leader who can manage the offense and provide scoring punch is no longer a luxury—it's a necessity. From my perspective, Brandon Goodwin embodies what teams should be looking for in that role. He's proven he can produce when given the opportunity, he fits seamlessly into various systems, and he plays with a chip on his shoulder that brings energy to the entire team. While he may not have the name recognition of some other backups, his impact on the court suggests he's deserving of more recognition. In my book, that makes him a strong contender for the title of the NBA's most underrated backup point guard—a player whose value extends far beyond the traditional metrics and whose contributions are felt in ways that statistics alone can't capture.