After wrapping up their final preseason matchup Tuesday, the Phoenix Suns joined several teams in making roster cuts Saturday, the NBA’s waiver deadline for non-guaranteed contracts.
Phoenix waived four players, including one preseason standout. The Suns signed and waived Sean McDermott and Nathan Mariano, moves designed to make both players eligible to join the team’s G League affiliate, the Valley Suns.
The final roster spot ultimately came down to three players — Jordan Goodwin, Jared Butler and David Duke Jr.
Duke Jr. failed to make a strong enough impression and was waived. In a somewhat surprising move, Butler was also released, leaving Goodwin with the final roster spot. Goodwin, who was claimed after being waived by the Los Angeles Lakers to make room for Marcus Smart, will remain with Phoenix for his second stint in the Valley.
Butler, meanwhile, appeared to do everything possible to earn a roster spot. In the preseason finale against the Lakers, he scored 35 points with seven rebounds, nine assists and no turnovers. Goodwin also performed well, finishing with 24 points but recording four turnovers. Butler shot more efficiently from the field and from 3-point range, though Goodwin held the edge at the free-throw line.
Because Butler’s non-guaranteed contract did not include Exhibit 10 language, he is not bound to the Suns’ G League team and is now a free agent. The former Baylor standout and NCAA champion will look for his next opportunity after averaging 11.5 points in his most recent NBA stint with the Philadelphia 76ers.