Mavericks flip recently acquired forward for PJ Washington

Williams has struggled in Dallas. His defense hasn't been at the level we've previously seen from him, and he had become a scapegoat for the franchise. The Mavericks will be hoping that the additional size and versatility Washington provides will lead to better results.

Having attended high school in Charlotte, Williams will be having something of a homecoming. His defensive upside and floor spacing could be exactly what the Hornets need as they continue to build around LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. The Mavericks will feel the same about how Washington can complement Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. 

Both teams will likely believe they have improved their rosters with these moves. It's not that Washington didn't fit the Hornets system, it's that Williams will provide a different dimension and bring NBA Finals experience with him. 

Nevertheless, Washington will now find himself in a pressure-cooker environment. He is leaving a team where there are minimal expectations to join one on the hunt for a championship. The adjustment in mentality will be new for him, having spent his entire career with the Hornets, who have been mired in mediocrity for over a decade.

With two superstars around him, Washington will likely have a clearly defined role. He will be tasked with rebounding and spacing the floor. He was impressed in a similar situation when stepping into the Hornets' starting lineup last season. Still, there will be some keen eyes on how he performs in the Western Conference with lofty expectations on his shoulders.

For now, though, the Mavericks have moved off a deal that wasn't working out and got a second opportunity to add the defense and shooting they've been looking for. On paper, this is a trade that could be good for both sides and give Dallas a shot at being a contender this season.