Adapting to a new NBA team can be a daunting task, and this is especially true for Klay Thompson, who spent his entire career with the Golden State Warriors before joining the Dallas Mavericks this offseason. Fortunately, P.J. Washington, who was acquired by the Mavericks before the 2023-24 NBA trade deadline, may play a key role in easing Thompson’s transition.
Washington, alongside Daniel Gafford, was brought into the Mavericks’ fold through trades that reshaped the team. Having joined Dallas from the Charlotte Hornets, Washington quickly familiarized himself with the nuances of playing in a new system. His experience as a wing player, alongside stars Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, positions him as an invaluable resource for Thompson, who will need to integrate himself into this established setup.
Thompson, a seasoned player who has spent his entire career with the Warriors, is undoubtedly familiar with the demands of NBA play and has observed Dončić and Irving for years. However, moving from a single-team career to a new environment with different team dynamics will present its own set of challenges. Washington’s insights could be crucial in helping Thompson navigate this transition effectively.
During his stint with the Mavericks last season, Washington averaged 11.7 points per game with shooting percentages of 42.1% from the field and 31.4% from three-point range. His performance, along with Gafford’s—who averaged 11.2 points and 6.9 rebounds with a field goal percentage of 78%—demonstrates the significant contributions that new players can make. Both Washington and Gafford have adapted to the Mavericks’ style of play, and their experiences could offer Thompson valuable advice.
Washington’s adjustment to the Mavericks’ system appeared successful, and he seems eager to contribute both on and off the court. His ability to offer leadership and guidance to Thompson could be instrumental in helping the new player acclimate to his role. The upcoming 2024-25 season will likely be a period of growth for Washington, both in terms of his own performance and his ability to support new teammates like Thompson.
In a recent interview, Washington expressed confidence in the Mavericks’ offseason acquisitions, which included not only Thompson but also Naji Marshall, Quentin Grimes, and Spencer Dinwiddie. He praised the new players, stating, “They’re gonna be great. I’m excited for y’all to see. They can pretty much do everything and they’re gonna help us in every single way.” Washington’s enthusiasm reflects his belief in the potential of the Mavericks’ revamped roster and suggests that the team is poised for an exciting season.
With a mix of new talent and established stars, the Mavericks are set to embark on a promising 2024-25 campaign. Washington’s role as both a player and a mentor will be crucial in integrating Thompson and other new arrivals into the team’s fabric. As the season unfolds, the contributions of Washington, Thompson, Dončić, and Irving will be key to the Mavericks’ success, and Washington’s experience could prove essential in making that transition as smooth as possible.
