P.J. Washington expressed full confidence that he will remain with the Dallas Mavericks despite offseason trade rumors. The veteran forward revealed he has discussed an increased leadership role with the front office and is eager to help the team build chemistry ahead of the new season.
P.J. Washington has been one of the Dallas Mavericks players frequently mentioned in trade speculation this offseason, but the veteran forward does not expect to be going anywhere.
Speaking to DLLS Sports' Kevin Gray, Washington said he has had extensive conversations with the Mavericks' leadership and remains confident that he will be on the roster when the new season begins.
"Super confident," Washington said when asked whether he expected to remain with Dallas by opening night. "I've had long talks with Masai, our GM, and the whole team. So, I'm super confident I'll be a Maverick."
"This is where I want to be. So, I'm super excited to be here and can't wait to get things going."
P.J. Washington
P.J. Washington
P.J. Washington
Washington brushes off trade speculation
Washington later directly addressed the trade rumors that have followed him throughout the offseason.
The 27-year-old said he does not pay much attention to outside speculation and views interest from other teams as a consequence of his value around the league.
"I don't really try to pay attention to it," Washington said. "I know, being a good player in this league, a lot of teams want you, but I think I'm where I want to be."
"Obviously, in Dallas, I love this organization. I love my teammates, coaching staff. So, I think everybody's on the right page with that."
Washington also revealed that the Mavericks want him to take on an increased leadership role next season, particularly with several younger players on the roster.
"My role is just going to be a leader, obviously, going out each and every night, just being myself, being aggressive on both ends of the floor and trying to lead as much as I can this year, using my voice," he said.
Washington also has high expectations for the new-look Mavericks, saying their ceiling will depend largely on how quickly the group develops chemistry.
"I think we can be a really good team," he said. "I think it just depends on how we play together, how we mesh."
Despite his name continuing to appear in potential trade scenarios, Washington's message was clear: he wants to stay in Dallas and believes the Mavericks feel the same way.
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