It’s no secret the Detroit Pistons would love to add a big man who can spread the floor, and they might have an opportunity with PJ Washington of the Mavericks.
The Mavs are a team the Pistons should have an eye on, especially after they recently signed Daniel Gafford to a new three-year extension that could set the mark for Jalen Duren's next deal.
The Dallas’ frontcourt is crowded as it is, and if they add Cooper Flagg with the number one pick as is expected, it will be even more so, which could force them into further trades.
Of course, the Mavs could just go big and count on the versatility of Washington and Flagg to allow them to do so without getting burned.
Gafford’s contract is also one that can be traded right away given that it is under the threshold, so the Mavs may have other plans with their backup center in future deals.
If not, Washington may end up being the odd man out, in which case, the Pistons should be interested.
Detroit Pistons rumors: PJ Washington
Washington would satisfy the Pistons’ desire to have a four or five who can spread the floor with 3-point shooting.
Washington can play either the four or five in some situations and shot over 38 percent from long range on 4.2 attempts per game this season.
He’s a guy who can play with another big man or occasionally as a small-ball center, so he’d provide insurance and depth at a couple of positions.
He’d also provide a long-term solution to their biggest hole, which is at power forward, as the Pistons still just have Tobias Harris, who will be on an expiring contract next season. Power forward is the only spot where the Pistons don’t have a young player, and at 26-years-old, Washington fits their timeline.
He also fits the culture, as Washington plays with a bit of an edge, and isn’t afraid to mix it up, something the Pistons know well, as they seem to get into a dust-up with him every time they play. He and Isaiah Stewart would be a nightmare for opponents defensively.
He’s a good rebounder and versatile defender who averaged over a block and steal per game this season, one of the only players in the league to do so.
The question is whether the Mavericks see him as part of their future plans or if the Gafford signing maxed out the dollars they are going to invest in big men. You never know with Dallas, but if they can’t get an extension done with Washington, we could see a sign-and-trade.
One proposal suggested the Pistons could sign-and-trade Dennis Schroder as part of the deal, as Dallas desperately needs another point guard and could trade from their surplus of big men to get one.