The Dallas Mavericks struck gold in the NBA Draft lottery, securing the No. 1 overall pick and selecting Duke’s electrifying superstar forward, Cooper Flagg. This monumental selection has sent shockwaves through the league, positioning the Mavericks as early winners of the draft. However, the addition of Flagg has created a frontcourt conundrum in Dallas, potentially opening the door for the Golden State Warriors to make a bold and controversial move. According to Blue Man Hoop’s Tyler Watts, the Warriors could seize this opportunity by targeting a trade for Dallas’ 26-year-old forward, P.J. Washington, a player some have labeled a “loser” after a disappointing playoff showing but who could be the missing piece for Golden State’s championship aspirations.
A Frontcourt Logjam in Dallas
The Mavericks’ draft coup has reshaped their roster dynamics. With Dereck Lively II entrenched as the starting center and Anthony Davis commanding the power forward role, Flagg’s arrival likely slots him into the small forward position. This leaves Dallas with a crowded frontcourt, as both P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford vie for significant minutes off the bench. The Mavericks, fresh off their 2024 NBA Finals run, face a minutes crunch that could force them to make tough decisions.
“Washington played a key role in the Mavs’ 2024 NBA Finals run,” Watts noted. “The 6-foot-7 forward can defend multiple positions, operate as a small-ball five, and make shots. He is just entering his prime, and the 26-year-old could instantly help any contender.” However, with Flagg’s arrival, Dallas may need to offload one of their talented bigs to balance their rotation, and Washington, with his $46 million contract, could be the odd man out.
Washington’s Value: More Than Meets the Eye
Despite a lackluster performance in the Mavericks’ season-ending 120-106 Play-In loss to the Memphis Grizzlies—where Washington scored zero points in 27 minutes—the versatile forward proved his worth throughout the 2024-25 season. Averaging 14.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game while shooting an impressive 45.3% from the field and 38.1% from three, Washington delivered the second-most productive campaign of his career. His ability to stretch the floor, attack closeouts with either hand, and finish strong at the rim in dump-off situations makes him a low-maintenance yet highly effective offensive contributor.
Defensively, Washington’s switchability and tenacity shine. Hailing from Louisville, Kentucky, the former Kentucky Wildcat and McDonald’s All-American brings an edge that allows him to hold his own in one-on-one matchups, making him a valuable asset for any team needing versatility. His skill set aligns perfectly with the Warriors’ needs, as they look to bolster their roster after a playoff run that fell short despite the blockbuster acquisition of Jimmy Butler.
Why the Warriors Need Washington
The Warriors’ 2024-25 season exposed critical weaknesses in size and scoring depth behind Stephen Curry. While Butler’s addition elevated Golden State to contender status, their postseason shortcomings highlighted the need for one more key rotation piece. Enter P.J. Washington, whose ability to defend multiple positions, play small-ball five, and knock down open threes could seamlessly complement the Warriors’ fast-paced, versatile style of play.
At 26, Washington is entering his prime, offering both immediate impact and long-term potential. His $46 million contract, while substantial, reflects his value as a two-way player who can thrive in Golden State’s system. The Warriors, who have struggled to find consistent frontcourt production, could deploy Washington as a stretch four or small-ball five, adding the size and scoring punch they desperately need to push them over the championship hump.
A Controversial Yet Calculated Gamble
Acquiring Washington would not come without skepticism. His scoreless outing in Dallas’ Play-In loss has drawn criticism, with some labeling him a “loser” under pressure. Yet, one poor performance doesn’t define a player who has consistently proven his worth as a reliable two-way contributor. For the Warriors, trading for Washington represents a calculated gamble—one that could solidify their roster and elevate them from contenders to champions.
As the Mavericks navigate their frontcourt logjam, the Warriors have a golden opportunity to capitalize on Dallas’ surplus. By inquiring about Washington this offseason, Golden State could secure the final piece of their championship puzzle, turning a controversial move into a masterstroke that reshapes the NBA landscape.