The Los Angeles Lakers have been connected to nearly every high-level role player since Luka Dončić arrived in Los Angeles. One of the most intriguing possibilities was a reunion with Dallas Mavericks forward PJ Washington, whose size, defensive versatility, and proven chemistry with Dončić made him an ideal fit. That door, however, has been closed.
Shams Charania of The Athletic reported:
“Dallas Mavericks forward PJ Washington has agreed to a four-year, $90 million contract extension with the franchise, agent Kevin Bradbury of LIFT Sports Management told ESPN. Washington secures a new deal that keeps him in Dallas through 2029-30.”
The extension gives Washington the maximum possible raise off his $14.2 million salary, according to cap expert Bobby Marks, while also making him ineligible to be traded during the 2025–26 season. For the Lakers, who were viewed as a natural landing spot if Dallas explored moving him, it’s a significant blow to their list of potential trade targets.
A Perfect Fit That Won’t Happen
Washington’s skill set checked all the boxes Los Angeles is searching for. At 6-foot-7, he can defend multiple positions, knock down open threes, and provide rebounding support — all while thriving in the complementary role that Dončić has historically elevated. In 2024–25, Washington posted career-highs with 14.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game while shooting 45.3 percent from the field and 38.1 percent from deep.
Tyler Watts of Lake Show Life argued that Washington’s two-way skill set would be an ideal complement for Dončić, noting his ability to rebound, defend multiple positions, and knock down open threes.
That Finals run underscored Washington’s value, as he emerged as Dallas’ second-leading scorer in the semifinals victory over Oklahoma City. For a Lakers roster that still needs more two-way depth alongside Dončić, his game seemed tailor-made.
The Dallas Side of the Equation
The Mavericks’ decision to extend Washington reflects both their faith in him and their crowded depth chart. Dallas enters the 2025–26 season with Anthony Davis and rookie Cooper Flagg cemented in the frontcourt, Klay Thompson and D’Angelo Russell on the wings, and Dereck Lively anchoring the middle.
While Washington may begin the year as a bench piece, Dallas clearly views him as a long-term contributor.
Where the Lakers Go From Here
For Rob Pelinka and the Lakers’ front office, losing Washington as a trade option forces a pivot. Los Angeles has significant contracts expiring in 2026 — including LeBron James, Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, Rui Hachimura, and Maxi Kleber — which could free up as much as $60 million in cap space. That flexibility gives the Lakers room to chase high-level role players or even a third star to flank Dončić.
Washington’s extension ensures he won’t be part of that conversation this season. But his fit with Dončić, his steady production, and his eventual unrestricted free agency in 2026 will keep him firmly on the Lakers’ radar. For now, Los Angeles will have to look elsewhere to find the kind of two-way boost Washington could have provided.