The Dallas Mavericks have a chance to make their first NBA Finals appearance since upsetting LeBron James' Miami Heat squad in 2011. However, they first must get past the upstart Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Finals, and it's going to take more than Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving heroics.
Power forward P.J. Washington must continue to be a difference-maker if the Mavs intend to win this series. The 25-year-0ld made the most important play of his young career Saturday, drawing a foul against Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with 2.1 seconds left.
With Dallas down 116-115, Doncic swung the ball to an open Washington in the corner, who executed a delicious pump fake. “SGA” bit hard as he closed out, sending the Kentucky alum to the line. He then drained two free throws, and the rest was history.
However, Washington also understands that team basketball is more conducive to winning than individual highlights, via Fansided's Noah Weber.
“I mean, obviously they're (the Wolves) are a great defensive team,” Washington said. “For us, we just have to share the ball, and just play Mavs basketball. We can't afford to make turnovers, and just play together and be together on the defensive end as well. They have a lot of superstars that can score the ball, and we've got to stick together.”
Does Washington have the chops to help turn that statement into a reality?
As Washington's star rises, this series will be critical for his Mavs career
Washington has been reliable for Dallas this postseason, averaging 14.3 points per game on 45.3% shooting, with 6.8 rebounds and 1.5 assists. If he continues at this pace, he'll eventually separate himself as the clear third option for the Mavs.
Head coach Jason Kidd does not doubt that Washington can reach that level, via Mavs Fan for Life's Landon Thomas.
“The confidence we have in PJ on both ends of the floor, not just shooting the three, but being able to play with him in the post or being able to run the offense and get us organized,” Kidd said. “He has the skillset to put the ball on the floor, and find and make the right plays. We trust that he's gonna find the open guy if he's not scoring.”
With Minnesota's league-leading defense next on Dallas' docket, it'll be tricky for Washington to find room to work offensively. However, if he's still able to consistently contribute around 15 points a game, it'll show that he can do it against anybody.
Defensively, the Wolves' only major threat off the dribble is Anthony Edwards. However, unheralded players like Naz Reid have stepped up, so Washington's contributions on that end of the floor will be essential as well.
If the 6-foot-7, 230-pounder does continue his momentum, he could be looking at a nice payday sooner rather than later. There's no better way for a player to increase his stock than to shine in the playoffs. With the Mavs already possessing one of the best backcourt duos in history, locking up Washington to support them long-term could do them wonders.
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