NBA Rumors: This is the current situation between PJ Washington and his possible signing with the Lakers
There was talk of a possible reunion with Luka Doncic in the city of Los Angeles, but it seems that the power forward will finally stay with the Dallas Mavericks
P.J. Washington has delivered the most definitive message yet about his future with the Dallas Mavericks, and all signs point to the fact that Los Angeles Lakers will have to look elsewhere if they want to reunite Luka Doncic with one of his former most trusted teammates.
The player expressed being "super confident" that he will continue in Dallas when the 2026-27 season begins, after holding extensive discussions with the franchise's new president of basketball operations, Masai Ujiri.
The statement signifies a significant shift from Washington's situation earlier in the summer.
Washington confident in staying in Dallas
On June 12, journalist Marc Stein reported that Washington, Klay Thompson, and Daniel Gafford were the Mavericks veterans that the franchise seemed most willing to trade. However, more than two months later, Washington speaks as a player convinced that those plans have changed.
Asked by Kevin Gray of DLLS Mavs if he expected to be part of the Dallas roster on opening night, Washington was clear:
"Super confident. I've had long conversations with Masai, our general manager, and the whole team. So, I'm super confident I'll be a Maverick. This is where I want to be. I'm very excited to be here and looking forward to everything starting."
For the Lakers, these words could close one of the most interesting trading possibilities they had on the table this summer.
Ujiri has already explained his role
Washington's confidence seems to come directly from the conversations he's had with Dallas' new sports executives. As the player explained, Ujiri has already spoken to him about the role he will have next season, and the Mavericks expect him to take on leadership responsibilities within a younger squad.
"My role is simply that of a leader. Obviously, go out every night, be myself, be aggressive on both ends of the floor, and try to lead as much as I can this year, using my voice and trying to be the best veteran possible for the young guys," he stated.
His statements provide context to the information Stein had published in June. Dallas being willing to entertain offers for Washington at the beginning of the summer did not necessarily mean that his trade was set. Now, his detailed discussions about the role he will play, combined with his confidence in being present at the season opener, suggest that the player has been given assurances about his situation.
Washington was also firm when Gray directly asked him about trade rumors.
"I really try not to pay attention to them. I know that when you're a good player in this league, many teams want you, but I think I'm where I want to be. Obviously, in Dallas. I love this organization. I love my teammates and the coaching staff," he explained.
Reunion with Doncic losing strength
Washington's availability had clear interest for the Lakers due to his relationship with Doncic. Both helped the Mavericks reach the 2024 NBA Finals after Dallas acquired Washington from Charlotte at the trade deadline.
His ability to defend multiple positions, grab rebounds, and play without needing to dominate the ball made him a natural complement alongside Doncic. That connection fueled speculation about a possible reunion in Los Angeles.
However, the Lakers' actual interest had always been less clear. Journalist Jake Fischer previously reported not being aware of Los Angeles engaging in significant talks with Dallas for Washington or Gafford.
The player's recent statements now further cast doubt on the possibility of an opportunity for the Lakers.
A situation that has changed in two months
In the NBA, plans can change rapidly, and Washington also does not have absolute control over whether Dallas decides to consider an offer when another team comes calling. Still, the timing of making these statements is significant.
In June, Washington was among the Mavericks veterans most available in trade talks. In August, after having "lengthy conversations" with Ujiri and the rest of the organization, the player states he knows his role, wants to stay in Dallas, and is "super confident" he will remain a Maverick when the season opener arrives.
For the Lakers, Washington's message appears more like a closing door than an invitation to make an offer.
This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Rumores NBA: Así está la situación actual entre PJ Washington y su posible fichaje por los Lakers
