Atlanta Hawks: Why Brandon Goodwin deserved a regular contract

ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 22: Brandon Goodwin #0 of the Atlanta Hawks reacts following a basket during the fourth quarter of a game against the Los Angeles Clippers at State Farm Arena on January 22, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 22: Brandon Goodwin #0 of the Atlanta Hawks reacts following a basket during the fourth quarter of a game against the Los Angeles Clippers at State Farm Arena on January 22, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)

Brandon Goodwin is a second-year point guard on the Atlanta Hawks. His play recently warranted an upgrade from a two-way contract to a regular contract.

Brandon Goodwin went undrafted in 2018, had brief stints with the Memphis Grizzlies and Denver Nuggets and eventually found his way onto the 2019-20 Atlanta Hawks where he appears to have found a home. In the 34 games, Goodwin played for the Hawks this season he averaged 17.2 points, 4.3 assists and 6.0 rebounds per 36 minutes on .400/.299/.933 shooting splits.

These are really solid numbers for the Hawks backup point guard and is a huge reason why the Hawks felt he deserved to be converted to a regular contract. The one glaring weakness in his game is the inconsistent three-point shot but if he could figure that out, he’ll be a big part of the Hawks bench unit going forward.

Goodwin’s college career started at UCF where he struggled to make a real impact. He later transferred to Florida Gulf Coast, this is where he really caught his stride. In his two seasons at Florida Gulf Coast, Goodwin averaged 18.5 points, 4.4 assists and 5.0 rebounds per game. Very similar numbers to what he’s been putting up per 36 minutes with the Hawks.

It’s no secret that opportunity and situation is a massive part of an NBA players success and we’re seeing it here with Brandon Goodwin. The Atlanta Hawks and Goodwin crossed paths at the perfect time and we’re seeing him blossom into really solid NBA player. If Goodwin is able to continue to improve whilst continuing to receive more opportunity, he will be an important part of the Hawks young core.