NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors might sign $46.5 million Dallas Mavericks star to bolster squad and improve Stephen Curry's title odds
Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler III (10) and guard Stephen Curry (30) share a laugh during the second quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit- D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images.
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.
Washington, who played a crucial role in Dallas' 2024 NBA Finals run, now finds himself in a logjam behind Flagg, Anthony Davis, Dereck Lively II, and Daniel Gafford.
With the Mavericks likely looking to consolidate talent, Golden State should pounce—because the 26-year-old forward checks every box the Warriors need filled.
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:
Dallas Mavericks (Image via USA TODAY Sports)
- 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
Despite his strong season, PJ Washington had a rough finale, going scoreless in 27 minutes during Dallas' Play-In loss to Memphis. However, his overall production (career-second-best numbers) makes him a valuable trade asset.
With Flagg joining an already stacked frontcourt featuring Lively, Davis, and Gafford, Dallas may prioritize consolidating talent rather than keeping Washington as a reserve.
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: Golden State Warriors predicted to sign $18,001,011 Charlotte Hornets rookie to bolster squad around Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler and improve title odds
The Warriors need one more reliable piece to compete at the highest level. PJ Washington, now potentially available due to Dallas' roster crunch, could be the perfect addition. If Golden State can pull off this trade, they might just have enough to make another deep playoff run.
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