The Mavericks didn't pull off the second ultimate surprise move of a lifetime after [trading Luka Doncic](https://lakeshowlife.com/lakers-gift-from-nico-harrison-looks-even-sweeter-latest-blockbuster-trade-doncic-bane) to the Los Angeles Lakers a few months ago, drafting Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 pick. While it isn't ideal for Lakers fans to know Flagg is with one of their rivals in the West, LA can still benefit from the top pick landing in Dallas.
Flagg joining the Mavericks could lead to PJ Washington hitting the trade block, an ideal target for the Lakers. The frontcourt is more crowded in Dallas with Flagg, which is a problem the Mavs aren't worried about now, as they're celebrating drafting a generational talent. Landing Flagg was a dream come true, even if it leads to Washington's departure.
Dallas [traded for Washington](https://www.nba.com/news/hornets-trade-p-j-washington-mavs) before the 2024 deadline in a move that helped propel the team to the NBA Finals. He averaged 13 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game for the Mavs in the postseason, shooting 42.7% from the field and 34.8% from three. He was everything Dallas needed and more in the playoffs.
Washington averaged 14.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.1 blocks, and 1.1 steals per game in his first full season in Dallas, shooting 45.3% from the field and 38.1% from deep. He will be eligible to sign an extension this summer, as he has one more season left on his current contract. As much as the Mavs may want to keep Washington, Anthony Davis' wish to play the four could lead to Dallas listening to offers for the forward.
PJ Washington could emerge as the ideal Lakers trade target
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Los Angeles should jump at the opportunity to add a 3-and-D wing to the roster for a relatively low cost, given his contract situation. The Lakers don't have the draft capital to make a significant splash on the trade market, but landing Washington would be an ideal scenario.