The Dallas Mavericks have officially cemented their long-term commitment to forward PJ Washington, signing him to a substantial four-year, $90 million contract extension. This significant deal ensures Washington will remain a cornerstone of the Mavericks` roster through the conclusion of the 2029-30 NBA season.
Confirmed by Washington`s agent to Shams Charania, this new agreement significantly elevates the player`s financial standing. His average annual salary is set to rise sharply from $14.2 million in the final year of his previous contract to an impressive $22.5 million per season.
Washington originally joined the Mavericks via a trade deadline acquisition in 2024. He swiftly proved his worth, becoming a pivotal contributor during the team`s memorable run to the NBA Finals in the same year. His performance last season was particularly impactful, where he averaged 14.7 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. He demonstrated strong shooting efficiency with splits of 45.3% from the field, 38.1% from beyond the arc, and 72.2% from the free-throw line across 57 games. This consistent, high-level play has now been appropriately recognized and rewarded with his new contract.
Dallas Mavericks` Deep Frontcourt and Strategic Outlook
With Washington`s extension finalized, the Mavericks now boast a remarkably deep and talented frontcourt lineup for the foreseeable future. This summer also saw the team extend Daniel Gafford on a new three-year deal. The current roster further includes established stars like Anthony Davis, the promising young center Dereck Lively II, and the much-anticipated No. 1 overall pick from this summer`s NBA Draft, Cooper Flagg. Head coach Jason Kidd faces an intriguing challenge as the 2025-26 season approaches: his primary task will be to skillfully integrate this wealth of talent, finding the optimal combinations and rotations to maximize the team`s potential.
It is widely anticipated that, at some point, the Mavericks may strategically consolidate their extensive frontcourt talent through trades to achieve a more balanced roster composition. However, by securing both Gafford and Washington with new extensions, the team has significantly enhanced its arsenal of valuable assets and improved its flexibility for future trade negotiations. Prior to these new deals, Dallas`s salary cap sheet lacked contracts within the $18 million to $36 million annual range, which could have limited their options in pursuing significant trades. Washington`s new contract expertly fills this crucial void, providing the team with substantial “ammunition” for future strategic moves in the trade market.
