As the season gears up for the Dallas Mavericks, the role and future of Dallas forward P.J. Washington are uncertain. Washington joined the team in a trade with the Hornets in the 2023-2024 season and has been a key piece of the squad ever since, but could his days in Dallas be numbered?

New Dallas Mavericks president Masai Ujiri is a fan of P.J. Washington. In an interview with Ron Harrod Jr. of DLLS, Ujiri spoke glowingly of the Mavericks' swingman in a conversation Washington later retold.

“He told me [that] you're basically what I look for in a player: A big versatile guy that can do a lot of things on both ends of the floor. He told me I wasn't going to get traded — and [that] if I was he would tell me. So for me I think it's just building trust. He's a guy you can trust and have a great relationship with.”

Article Continues Below

But still, trade buzz persists around Washington as the Mavericks find themselves replete with forward talent. Washington also has a lofty price tag, as he signed a 4-year extension last year worth $88.8 million. The 2026-2027 season will be the first year of the extension. In media availability last week, Dusty May floated P.J. Washington as a potential starter alongside Cooper Flagg and Kyrie Irving.

“Hopefully, we have the mindset of whatever the team needs, but PJ is certainly in the mix for a starting spot, mostly because he can play multiple positions.”

Washington has been a key role player for the team following his trade to Dallas, as he was a member of the 2024 NBA Finals team. He's been with the Mavericks for the past two seasons, though injuries have limited his availability. Still, he averaged 14.2 points, 7 rebounds, 1.1 blocks, and 1 steal while also shooting 45% from the field.