P.J. Washington shines for the Mavericks during Luka Dončić’s absence, averaging 24.5 points, 15 rebounds in key wins, showcasing leadership and versatility.
MIAMI — With Luka Dončić sidelined by a sprained right wrist, the Dallas Mavericks have relied heavily on their depth and adaptability. Among the players stepping up during this stretch is P.J. Washington, whose ability to score in the paint, defend with versatility, and lead on both ends of the floor has been pivotal.
Through 11 games this season, Washington is averaging 10.8 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game. However, his impact has been especially noticeable in the two games without Dončić, where he’s averaged 24.5 points, 15.0 rebounds, and 1.5 assists. His all-around contributions have been key in securing critical road wins over tough Western Conference opponents like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Denver Nuggets.
Dominating in Luka Dončić’s Absence
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On Friday, against the Nuggets, Washington showed his dominance in the paint, putting up 22 points and 13 rebounds in the Mavericks’ thrilling 123-120 win. His ability to score inside and draw defensive attention created opportunities for teammates like Naji Marshall, who contributed 26 points.
Without Dončić, the Mavericks have made Washington a focal point in the offense, getting him involved in the post and on the move—whether flashing into post touches, diving to the rim after screening, attacking in transition, or working out of dribble handoffs in the corner. His physicality and scoring touch around the rim have given Dallas a reliable option in half-court sets. Washington has responded by delivering two big double-doubles in his last three games while scoring efficiently.
“P.J. started the party,” Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd said. “He was dominant—being able to get him in the post and get him on the move. Especially with Luka out, you’re not going to just get one player to become Luka. It’s going to take a team, and P.J. has been a big part of that.”
Over his last three games, Washington has averaged 17.7 points, 12.0 rebounds, and 1.3 assists. His consistent effort on the boards has been particularly valuable, helping the Mavericks limit second-chance opportunities and control the pace of games.
“At the end of the day, I know we’ve got to be better on the defensive glass,” Washington said. “So every time a shot goes up, I’m trying to be aggressive and trying to go get a rebound for my team. Just focusing on little things, and I just kind of get a roll going and just being aggressive. I credit my teammates for having confidence in me as well.”
Defensive Impact and Leadership
Washington’s contributions extend beyond scoring and rebounding. His defensive presence and leadership have been crucial during the Mavericks’ four-game win streak. Against Denver, his late-game steal on a long inbounds pass helped seal the victory, showcasing his ability to deliver in the game’s most critical moments.
“At the end of the day, we didn’t want this to go like it went the last time,” Washington said, referencing the Mavericks’ earlier loss to Denver. “We locked in, tried to win every possession, and understood that every possession mattered at the end of the game.”
Washington’s teammates have also taken notice of his growth and leadership. Dereck Lively II praised Washington’s confidence and vocal presence.
“P.J.’s confidence is growing, and it’s exciting to see how far he can go,” Lively said. “He’s been huge for us, stepping up in key moments and doing whatever the team needs. His presence on both ends of the floor makes a big difference.”
The Mavericks’ turnaround began after a team meeting following their frustrating loss to the Utah Jazz—a fourth consecutive loss decided by a single possession. Washington was one of the players who spoke up, helping to refocus the group and address areas for improvement.
“After that loss, we had a meeting—players and coaches—and told ourselves we had to be better,” Washington said. “We stayed positive, attacked each day, and did what the coaches asked us to do. It’s put us in a position to win.”
Lively added, “A lot of voices were involved—Kai, Kieff, P.J., me, Gaff, even Spencer. Everyone shared what they saw, whether it was about effort, mistakes, or competing. We needed to play high-level basketball, team basketball. That meeting helped us shift toward playing the way we’ve been these past few games.”
Looking Ahead
The Mavericks, now 9-7, remain alive in the NBA Cup race and will face the Miami Heat on Sunday. With Dončić still sidelined, Washington’s ability to maintain his high level of play will be crucial.
“P.J. started the party,” Kidd said. “We’re going to need him to keep doing that as we continue to navigate this stretch without Luka.”
For Washington, the focus remains on playing with energy and contributing in any way possible. “We’re taking it to each team every night,” he said. “We’re just absolutely excited we got a win tonight.”
If his recent performances are any indication, Washington will continue to be a driving force for the Mavericks. His expanded role and leadership have proven he’s more than ready to step up when the team needs him most.
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