The Dallas Mavericks Have a Budding P.J Washington Problem

The Dallas Mavericks have a budding P.J. Washington problem. Here’s a closer look, so you can make an informed decision.

Dallas Mavericks Have a PJ Washington Problem

One could argue the Mavs’ injury bug isn’t solely attributed to Washington, 21, as Dante Exum, Dereck Lively II, and most importantly, Kyrie Irving, are currently on the team’s injury report. However, the injury bug has bitten the 21-year-old several times.

Washington is the latest victim of the injury bug. Although ankle sprains are an aspect of professional basketball, Washington’s second ankle sprain this season sidelined him for five games.

Last season, the big man missed six games, made his return to the court, and aggravated his ankle again. He played a career-low 57 games due to lower-body injuries. He may not have missed massive amounts of time, but he can miss a massive amount of time, given his injury history. That could lead to him getting traded to another team in the future.

This season, the Kentucky basketball alum suffered a left shoulder strain on Nov. 12, 2025, a right ankle sprain on Dec. 1, 2025, a right foot injury on Dec. 23, 2025, and a second right ankle sprain on Jan. 3, 2026. He can recover and return, but the Mavs financially and mentally can’t afford to constantly have him out of the starting lineup.

Dallas Mavericks’ Outlook

The Mavericks’ athletic training staff reportedly underwent significant changes after then-Owner Mark Cuban sold the Mavs to Miriam Adelson and her son-in-law, Patrick Dumont, in Dec. 2023. In addition, then-GM Nico Harrison, who was fired on Nov. 11, 2025, emphasized the need for a more effective approach to player health and performance optimization.

The Mavericks’ outlook appears to be wishy-washy right now. The team’s athletic training staff seems to significantly struggle with injury management, staff dynamics, and certification issues. Washington’s latest injury can be a combined result of not enforcing great player recovery, ensuring a complete recovery, and following player recovery protocols.

Washington joining the Mavs’ injury list isn’t a surprise. However, the team’s season-ending injuries to Lively II, 21, Exum, 30, and potentially Irving, 33, are concerning to the average fan. The team is cursed this season and is no stranger to injury, but they might continue to suffer what could be back-to-back cursed seasons at the end of the season.

When healthy, he serves as a regular starter for the Mavs, averaging 14.7 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.9 assists, while shooting 46% from the field and 31.7% from the three-point range. His hybrid build, which showcases his good functional strength, and his long 7’3″ wingspan, which surprises opponents with length, make him a solid starter.

Final Thoughts

The Mavericks already have a lot on their plate. The Mavs can complete a franchise-altering trade with Anthony Davis while searching for their next general manager to help the team succeed. Adding Washington’s injury to the laundry list is a rather negative sign, as this could lead to the team making a flurry of roster moves sooner than later.

Washington can return, but there’s no guarantee that he’ll be fine for the rest of the season. Washington’s ankle sprain may not be severe, but he may miss more than a week, when the Mavs might need him the most. He’s one of the Mavs’ most valuable players, but regardless of whether they see him as part of their long-term vision, they should prioritize his health.