Dallas Mavericks Forward PJ Washington has been highlighted for several days in NBA offseason conversations.
The main reason is Washington’s new four years, a 90 million extension with the Dallas Mavericks, solidifying its role as a key franchise work.
Since landing in Dallas through trade in February 2024, Washington has been extremely important to the Mavericks.
He helped his team reach the 2024 NBA Finals while starting 56 games last season, averaging 14.7 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game.
Washington shot a solid 38.1% beyond last season’s ARC, providing defensive value with 1.1 steel and 1.1 blocks per game.
Despite his consistent departure role, Washington could be his sixth candidate for next season, according to NBA insider Zach Lowe.
The arrival of the number one PickCooper Flag will likely move Washington to the bench role, creating an opportunity for award consideration.
“This (contract) goes through his prime. He’s a lovely jack of all trades that can do a little bit of everything in the right kind of position,” explained Lowe.
“He may not start for the Mavericks this year. I penciled D-Lo as someone they decided to start, as Kyrie Placeholders, Clay, Cooper Flag, Anthony Davis and Live or Gafford.”
“And that puts PJ Washington in the bench role. I think he’ll be the sixth guy candidate after that. He’s going to play for minutes in a lot of different positions, including him, Flag and Davis and the lively super big shots. I think he’s a really good player.
ESPN analysts believe Washington’s positional flexibility makes him particularly valuable to come out of the bench. His ability to play a variety of roles can maximize his influence and award candidates.
If Washington maintains his strong performance coming out of the bench, his chances for the award will be substantial.
The 27-year-old forward could still start if Jason Kidd decides to play the flag as a point guard responsible for ball handling.
| position | PJ Washington as the starter | PJ Washington and on the bench |
| Point Guard | Cooper Flag | Dangelo Russell |
| Shooting Guard | Clay Thompson | Clay Thompson |
| A small front | PJ Washington | Cooper Flag |
| Power Forward | Anthony Davis | Anthony Davis |
| center | Daniel Gafford | Daniel Gafford |
Lowe’s co-host Kirk Goldsberry believes Washington’s presence will bring great benefits to the Mavericks next season.
“I think he showed him as the winner in a big Dallas moment, and I agree. I think the Mavericks are one of the most attractive teams to appear in the season for a variety of reasons,” Goldsbury said.