The Genesis: Dallas’ Draft Windfall & Golden State’s Urgency
When the Dallas Mavericks landed Cooper Flagg with the 2025 No. 1 overall pick, it created an immediate frontcourt logjam with Anthony Davis, Dereck Lively II, Daniel Gafford, and PJ Washington. This surplus made Washington—a 6’7” forward on a $46.5 million contract—expendable. Simultaneously, the Golden State Warriors, led by 37-year-old Stephen Curry, are aggressively pursuing win-now moves to maximize his fading championship window after a second-round playoff exit.
PJ Washington’s 2024-25 Profile
| Stat Category | Average | Warriors’ Need |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 14.7 PPG | Secondary scoring behind Curry |
| 3PT% | 38.1% | Floor spacing for motion offense |
| Rebounds | 7.8 RPG | Size in small-ball lineups |
| Blocks | 1.1 BPG | Switchable defense |
The Proposed Trade: Moody + Picks for Washington
Multiple reports confirm the Warriors are exploring a deal sending Moses Moody and future second-round picks to Dallas for Washington. Why it makes sense:
Warriors’ Fit: Washington’s defensive versatility (guards 1–5) and catch-and-shoot efficiency (45.3% FG) solve Golden State’s weaknesses—namely, inconsistent wing depth and rebounding. His playoff experience from the 2024 Finals run adds vital postseason poise.
Mavericks’ Motivation: Flagg’s arrival pushes Washington to the bench. Trading him for Moody—a 22-year-old with upside—gives Dallas youth, flexibility, and rotation clarity.
Trade Mechanics
| Warriors Receive | Mavericks Receive | Cap Impact |
|---|---|---|
| PJ Washington (PF/C) | Moses Moody (SG/SF) | Warriors absorb $46.5M |
| Future 2nd-round picks | Mavs gain $17M in flexibility |
Stephen Curry’s Stakes: Legacy & Leverage
Championship Clock: Curry is chasing his fifth ring to match Kobe and Magic. The Warriors already acquired Jimmy Butler mid-2025; adding Washington could be the final piece.
Injury Shadow: Curry’s 2025 hamstring strain—suffered during the Wolves series—underscored the need for durable, reliable secondary stars.
Front Office Pressure: After rejecting Sacramento’s offer for Jonathan Kuminga (Devin Carter and picks), Golden State is clearly targeting higher-impact deals.
Wild Cards: LeBron, Luka, and Logistical Hurdles
LeBron to Warriors?: A hypothetical blockbuster trade sending LeBron James to Golden State for Butler surfaced but faces hurdles: LeBron’s no-trade clause and the Lakers’ reluctance to aid a rival.
Luka Doncic Shockwaves: Curry’s viral “What?!” reaction to Dallas trading Doncic to the Lakers revealed how seismic shifts can shake the contender landscape.
Cap Complexities: Washington’s $46.5M deal intensifies Golden State’s luxury tax burden, possibly requiring salary dumps or secondary trades to remain compliant.
The Big Picture: A High-Risk, High-Reward Gamble
For the Warriors, acquiring Washington is about optimizing Curry’s prime with a two-way forward who fits their motion system. For Dallas, it’s balancing present contention around Flagg and Davis with long-term asset growth.
If completed, this trade could:
- Elevate Golden State to a top-3 Western Conference contender
- Force rivals like Phoenix or Denver into counter-moves
- Cement Curry’s legacy—showing the franchise did everything to win
Conclusion:
As one team executive put it, “Golden State’s window closes when Curry does.” Expect this trade rumor to gain traction as training camp nears.