The Golden State Warriors have acquired the Dallas Mavericks’ $46.5 million star in a shocking trade to form a deadly duo with Stephen Curry

In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the NBA, the Golden State Warriors have acquired Dallas Mavericks’ forward PJ Washington in a blockbuster trade, pairing the versatile $46.5 million star with Stephen Curry to form a formidable duo. This trade, sparked by Dallas’ draft-night coup of selecting Duke phenom Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 overall pick, addresses Golden State’s critical roster needs and positions them as serious title contenders once again.

The Trade Breakdown

The Warriors, long in search of a player to complement Curry’s electrifying offense, capitalized on Dallas’ frontcourt logjam. With Flagg joining Anthony Davis, Dereck Lively II, and Daniel Gafford, the Mavericks faced a minutes crunch, making Washington—a key contributor to their 2024 NBA Finals run—expendable. According to reports, the Warriors seized the opportunity to bolster their roster with the 26-year-old forward, whose defensive versatility, efficient scoring, and playoff experience align perfectly with their championship aspirations.

While the exact details of the trade package remain under wraps, sources suggest Golden State offered a combination of draft picks and young talent to secure Washington. The move signals the Warriors’ intent to maximize Curry’s prime and reclaim their spot atop the NBA hierarchy.

Why PJ Washington is the Perfect Fit

Washington’s skill set addresses Golden State’s two glaring weaknesses from last season: lack of frontcourt size and inconsistent secondary scoring. Here’s how the 6’7” forward elevates the Warriors:

Defensive Versatility: Washington’s ability to guard multiple positions, including as a small-ball center, gives Golden State the flexibility to counter diverse lineups. His switchability and toughness shone during Dallas’ Finals run, making him an ideal fit for Steve Kerr’s system.

Offensive Reliability: With a career 45.3% field goal percentage and 38.1% from three, Washington thrives in catch-and-shoot scenarios, complementing Curry’s gravity. His ability to attack closeouts and finish at the rim adds another dimension to the Warriors’ offense.

Playoff Pedigree: Washington’s experience in high-stakes games, including his pivotal role in Dallas’ 2024 Finals campaign, ensures he can handle the pressure of Golden State’s championship chase.

PJ Washington’s 2024-25 Season Stats

Dallas’ acquisition of Cooper Flagg created an enviable but crowded frontcourt. With Anthony Davis locked in at power forward, Dereck Lively II at center, and Flagg projected to play small forward, Washington’s role became uncertain. Daniel Gafford’s presence as a backup big further reduced available minutes. The Mavericks, prioritizing their star-studded core, opted to trade Washington to acquire assets that better fit their long-term vision.

Pairing Washington with Curry creates a dynamic partnership that could redefine the Western Conference. Curry’s unparalleled shooting and playmaking will open up opportunities for Washington’s spot-up threes and cutting ability, while Washington’s defensive prowess allows Curry to conserve energy on that end. With Jimmy Butler already in the fold, the Warriors now boast a trio capable of matching up with any team in the league.

The NBA Landscape Shifts

This trade sends a clear message: the Warriors are all-in for another championship. Washington’s arrival addresses their size and scoring concerns, making them a nightmare matchup for opponents. As the NBA adjusts to this seismic shift, teams like the Boston Celtics, Denver Nuggets, and Milwaukee Bucks will need to recalibrate their strategies to contend with Golden State’s revamped roster.

What’s Next for Golden State?

With Washington now in the fold, the Warriors are poised to dominate. Coach Steve Kerr will likely experiment with lineups featuring Washington as a small-ball five or alongside Butler and Draymond Green for a versatile, switch-heavy unit. The focus now shifts to integrating Washington into the Warriors’ fast-paced, motion-heavy offense while leveraging his defensive skills to disrupt opponents.

The NBA is on notice—Golden State is back, and with PJ Washington joining forces with Stephen Curry, the league is about to witness a title chase for the ages.