NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors might sign $46.5 million Dallas Mavericks star to form deadly duo with Stephen Curry and improve Championship odds
The
Golden State Warriors
have been searching for the right move to solidify their roster—and Dallas' draft-night fortune may have just handed them the perfect opportunity. After
the Mavericks
landed Duke phenom Cooper Flagg with the No.
1 overall pick, their frontcourt is suddenly overflowing with talent, potentially making key contributor PJ Washington expendable. According to Blue Man Hoop's Tyler Watts, the Warriors, who desperately need size, defensive versatility, and reliable secondary scoring, this could be the ideal trade target to push them back into title contention.
Following Flagg, Anthony Davis, Dereck Lively II, and Daniel Gafford, Washington, who was instrumental in Dallas' 2024 NBA Finals run, is currently stuck in a deadlock.
Golden State should jump at the chance to sign the 26-year-old forward, as the Mavericks are probably trying to assemble a team with a lot of quality.
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Why P.J. Washington Makes Sense for the
Golden State Warriors
Watts laid out the reasoning behind this potential move: "The
Golden State Warriors
should trade for PJ Washington after the Cooper Flagg selection created a frontcourt logjam for the Mavericks. Dallas has Dereck Lively II locked in at the five with Anthony Davis at the four. That means playing Flagg at the three. The Mavs have Washington and Daniel Gafford behind them. All five players want significant minutes, and Dallas only has so many available in the frontcourt." (H/t: Sporting News)
Washington's versatility fits Golden State's needs perfectly. Here's why:
Golden State Warriors at Chicago Bulls (Image via Imagn)
- Defensive Flexibility: At 6'7', he can guard multiple positions and even operate as a small-ball center.
- Offensive Reliability: He shoots efficiently (45.3% FG, 38.1% 3PT) and thrives in catch-and-shoot situations.
- Playoff Experience: His contributions were key in Dallas' deep playoff run last season.
How Washington Addresses Golden State's Weaknesses
The Golden State Warriors struggled with two major issues last season:
1. Lack of Size: Their frontcourt was often outmatched against bigger teams.
2. Scoring Beyond Curry: Secondary scoring options were inconsistent.
While the
Jimmy Butler
trade improved their roster, adding Washington could be the final piece to elevate them back into title contention.
P.J. Washington's 2024-25 Season Stats
Stat Category
Average Per Game
Points
14.7
Rebounds
7.8
Blocks
1.1
FG%
45.3%
3PT%
38.1%
Why Dallas Might Move On from PJ Washington
PJ Washington had a difficult season finale, going scoreless for 27 minutes in Dallas' Play-In loss to Memphis, while having a solid season overall. However, he is a strong trade asset due to his overall output (career-second-best stats).
Dallas may put more emphasis on assembling talent than holding Washington as a backup now that Flagg is a part of an already loaded frontcourt that includes Lively, Davis, and Gafford.
What PJ Washington Brings to the Table
- Efficient Offense: Excels in spot-up threes, closeout drives, and rim finishes.
- Defensive Toughness: Switchable defender who can handle one-on-one matchups.
- Championship Pedigree: Played a major role in a Finals-bound team.
Also read:
NBA Trade Rumors: Could Milwaukee Bucks Giannis Antetokounmpo Team Up With $215,159,700 Atlanta Hawks?
To compete at the highest level, the Warriors require one more dependable component. Dallas' roster need may have made PJ Washington accessible, making him the ideal addition. Golden State may have enough to go far in the playoffs again if they can complete this transaction.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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