BREAKING: P.J. Washington may have an interesting future role, according to Mavericks coach Jason Kidd.

The Dallas Mavericks defeated the Toronto Raptors 136-125 on the road on Wednesday night, allowing them to get back on track. This occurred following Tuesday night’s agonizingly close loss for Dallas to the Cavaliers, who were won on Max Strus’ incredible half-court shot.

When you consider that the Mavericks have one of their hardest games of the year coming up against Boston at the end of this four-game Eastern Conference road trip, it was imperative that they win against Toronto.
P.J. Washington may have an interesting future role, according to Mavericks coach Jason Kidd.
In light of the Mavericks’ recent struggles to lose to Indiana and Cleveland, one of the most noteworthy features from the game against Toronto was the diversification of scoring in the box score. In addition to Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, the Mavericks had three other bench players score in double figures or more against Toronto. P.J. Washington was by far the most significant of them all, finishing with 23 points, six rebounds, three blocks, and a 9–16 shooting percentage.

After Washington’s recent offensive setbacks, Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd was obviously thrilled to see Washington’s improved long-range shooting and self-assurance attacking in one-on-one situations in the team’s victory over Toronto. Kidd spoke highly of Washington during the press conference following the game.

“Having a third scorer would make things much easier. That’s how I believe P.J. is trending.”

From an offensive standpoint, Washington has made great strides toward becoming Dallas’s premier third option. However, considering the Mavericks’ ability to use him in situations where he can receive the ball quickly and in more cutting actions, it’s evident that he hasn’t yet reached his full potential.

It’s encouraging to see that Washington’s increased offensive volume didn’t compromise his effort or abilities on the defensive end, as his ability to guard the best wings on the opposing team and the point of attack has been invaluable to Dallas ever since they acquired him. Washington played excellent defense against Toronto both on and off the ball.

Given that Kidd is only 25 years old and is already on the fast track to being one of Dallas’ finest role players as the playoffs get near, perhaps Washington can eventually realize his prophecy of being the team’s third option.

Stay tuned for more as we’ll have you covered on P.J. Washington and the Dallas Mavericks leading up to the playoffs.