A 40‑minute effort from P.J. Washington helped Dallas edge Miami, while Daniel Gafford’s presence in the paint earned him a nod as a defensive cornerstone.
Key points
- P.J. Washington delivered a near‑full‑court effort, contributing both scoring and key defensive stops in the win over Miami.
- Coach Dusty May and rookie Cooper Flagg both singled out Washington and Daniel Gafford as the Mavericks’ primary defensive anchors.
- The Mavericks aim to continue their defensive momentum against the Oklahoma City Thunder in their next game.
On Monday night at the Kaseya Center, the Dallas Mavericks held off the Miami Heat 113‑109, with forward P.J. Washington logging a game‑high 40 minutes and 38 seconds. He finished with 20 points on 6‑of‑15 shooting, added nine rebounds, two assists, two steals and a block, and posted a plus‑5 rating, according to the game recap on Yardbarker.
Washington’s scoring burst included two late‑game three‑pointers – one set up by rookie Cooper Flagg with 30.8 seconds left in the first half that gave Dallas a 53‑52 lead, and another with 27.2 seconds remaining in the third quarter that trimmed Miami’s advantage to 83‑81. The article notes that the forward’s offensive contributions were complemented by his defensive hustle, including a key block on Giannis Antetokounmpo in the third quarter.
Washington's all‑around night
Mavericks head coach Dusty May praised Washington’s stamina and focus, saying the veteran appeared “engaged for almost the full 41 minutes” and highlighted his ability to secure loose balls and make decisive plays in the closing moments. May added that Washington’s versatility – stretching the defense, finishing at the rim and battling for rebounds – makes him a “weapon” on both ends of the floor.
Teammate Cooper Flagg, the league’s top pick in 2024, echoed the coach’s sentiment, calling Washington “our defensive anchor” alongside center Daniel Gafford. Flagg said Washington has taken on “tall tasks on defense” and that his effort, together with Gafford’s eight points, nine rebounds and two blocks before fouling out, has helped “hold down the fort.”
Coach May highlights defensive engagement
Veteran forward Zaccharie Risacher, also a recent high draft pick, described Washington as a “dog” and a “great leader,” noting his defensive intensity and willingness to answer questions from younger players. The article points out that Washington entered the game averaging 14.0 points and seven rebounds over his first three outings of the season.
Dallas (2‑2) will look to build on the win when it hosts the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday at the American Airlines Center, with tip‑off scheduled for 8:30 p.m. CT.
Reader questions
What were P.J. Washington’s statistical totals in the victory over Miami?
Washington played 40 minutes, 38 seconds, scored 20 points on 6‑of‑15 shooting (including 4‑of‑11 from three), grabbed nine rebounds, dished two assists, recorded two steals and one block, and posted a plus‑5 rating.
How did coach Dusty May describe Washington’s performance?
May said Washington was engaged for almost the entire 41 minutes, highlighted his focus, hustle on loose balls, and ability to stretch the defense while being physical in the paint.
When is the Mavericks’ next scheduled game?
Dallas will host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday at the American Airlines Center, with tip‑off set for 8:30 p.m. Central Time.
Source: yardbarker.com