Why Mavericks' P.J. Washington's Return Alludes to Future Success
DALLAS—Upon the Dallas Mavericks' announcement that Luka Doncic would miss the Sunday evening contest vs. the Oklahoma Thunder, the reigning Western Conference champions required backup to supplement their superstar's absence. P.J. Washington triggered a 121-119 victory over the Thunder. Washington saved Dallas from another loss to a playoff team and ultimately provided its fan base with hope.
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During Washington's six-game absence due to a right knee sprain, Dallas struggled mightily, as evidenced by its 1-5 record. However, following a forgettable return vs. the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday, Washington reintroduced himself to the Thunder fan base.
Washington has averaged 19 points against the Thunder in his last seven outings against the Western Conference juggernaut, including the 2024 playoffs. In the Mavericks' second signature win of the season, Washington proved he's worthy of the big-three consideration as a legitimate third option. Moreover, Washington's aggression proves the theory that Luka Doncic should step off the gas regarding shot volume.
Washington is the two-way player Dallas desperately needs, as Dereck Lively II hasn't played to expectations and leaves a lot to be desired defensively. Oklahoma City must disdain Washington, as he continuously wrecks the Western Conference playoff contender. Washinton scored 27 points on 7-13 from the field and 3-4 from 3 and grabbed a game-high 17 rebounds.
With Washington in the lineup, Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd has another versatile player in his shifting rotation. Perhaps the Mavericks don't experience such a disheartening stretch of basketball with Washington. Nonetheless, the Mavericks can't rewind time and can only look to the future.
In light of Washington's dominant performance vs. the Thunder, Dallas has the necessary versatile player who could steer the team in the right direction for the 2024-25 season.
