DALLAS — PJ Washington is establishing himself as a star in the NBA playoffs. The Dallas Mavericks knew he was a versatile player who featured offensive potential when they acquired him ahead of the trade deadline. Washington, however, has scored 29 points and 27 points in back-to-back huge playoff victories for Dallas.
Washington is not changing anything amid his recent hot stretch, however.
“For me, it’s the same comfort level,” Washington said on Monday morning after the Mavericks’ shoot-around. “I’m just getting shots now. Credit to my teammates for finding me.”
The Thunder entered the series prepared to focus on Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Washington, though, has stepped up in a major way over the past two games. Oklahoma City may look to make some changes defensively. Washington is not sure how the Thunder will approach their gameplan, though.
“I’m not sure what they’re gonna do,” Washington said. “I mean, I’m trying to keep it simple. Like I said, just take open ones, be aggressive on the offensive end as well.”
PJ Washington playing crucial role for Mavericks in NBA playoffs
Washington is a versatile player as aforementioned. He can guard multiple positions, shoot the three-ball, and finish at the basket.
His scoring prowess has been discussed on a consistent basis over the past week. However, Washington knows that his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game is important.
“For me, I felt like I could come in and contribute in any way,” Washington said. “Just being versatile is my biggest thing. I want to be able to guard them as a player and be able to make shots when I have to.”
Oklahoma City is searching for answers when it comes to containing Washington. It is quite difficult given the fact that Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic, two of the best players in the NBA, also happen to be on the floor.
On Monday, Thunder rookie center Chet Holmgren addressed Washington’s recent performance.
“We just have to understand that he’s playing loose with a lot of confidence right now,” Holmgren said. “You know he’s making those shots. We can’t just allow him to get to what’s working. We gotta take that away and make things tough on him.”
Mavs looking to take 3-1 series lead
The Mavericks can take a commanding 3-1 series lead with a victory on Monday in Game 4. Dallas leads the series 2-1, but they understand that the Thunder are going to be prepared for Game 4.
It’s a crucial affair for both teams, but it is certainly a must-win for Oklahoma City. Dallas will probably view the game in similar fashion. After all, the idea of heading back to Oklahoma City for Game 5 with the series tied at two games apiece surely does not sound appealing to the Mavs.
Game 4 projects to be another competitive affair. Tip-off is scheduled for 9:30 PM EST.
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