Most fans assume P.J. Washington is locked into the starting lineup for the Dallas Mavericks this year. The reality is far messier and much more surprising for the team’s core. According to reports, the franchise could be open to hearing offers for Washington as the season moves forward. This potential move comes even though he was a key piece in their 2024 NBA Finals run.
The confusion stems from a crowded frontcourt that leaves the coach with tough choices. “It is not yet clear whether Washington will start or come off the bench for first-year Mavericks coach Dusty May,” Stein reported. That uncertainty is enough to make rival teams think Dallas might sell high on the 28-year-old forward.
A Logjam of Talent Creates Trade Heat
Washington played a huge role last year, but the roster has grown too deep for everyone to start. The team now features countless forwards of all sizes behind new additions like rookie Cooper Flagg and Naji Marshall. This logjam is exactly why Stein believes Dallas would eventually listen to offers for their versatile forward. The front office has to decide if keeping everyone makes sense or if trading a star helps the whole group.
Despite the noise, earlier reports indicated Washington should stay as a key part of the squad. He is entering the first year of a massive four-year, roughly $90 million contract extension. That huge deal usually signals a team’s long-term plan, but the trade rumors suggest the Mavericks are still weighing their options. The team has been dealing with these forward position issues since the days of former franchise superstar Luka Doncic.
Numbers Show Why He Remains Valuable
Despite battling a stop-and-start campaign caused by various illnesses and injuries, Washington demonstrated his value on the court. In 31 minutes per contest across 56 appearances with 53 starts, he recorded 14.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.8 assists. Demonstrating his all-around ability when healthy, he also contributed 1.1 blocks and 1.0 steal per game. Field goal, three-point, and free-throw percentages were recorded at 45.0%, 32.5%, and 68.7%, respectively.
Off the court, he has assumed an active mentoring and leadership position to assist young players in their adjustment. He notably helped then-rookie Flagg get used to the NBA pace and physicality. This leadership value is hard to replace, even with a roster full of young talent. While various rival teams persist in the perception that Dallas might consider offers, the stability is evident in the on-court production.
The season is set to begin soon, and the coaching staff is still evaluating lineup combinations. Under coach Dusty May, Washington remains in strong conversation regarding a starting forward spot. The final decision will likely depend on how the team looks in the early weeks of play. If the logjam becomes too tight, the trade talks could turn into action before the season gets too deep.
