P.J. Washington has 18 points, nine boards in win

Washington has been a solid source of offense for Dallas early on this season. This was his second 20-point game of the season, and he has averaged 15.5 points and 2.0 triples per game thus far. He has been a decent source of steals in years past, and he finally got his first two of the season in this game. That number should regulate, allowing him to be a better fantasy producer moving forward.

After Cooper Flagg sustained a left shoulder injury in Friday’s win over the Pacers, Risacher started for the Mavericks for the first time on Saturday. He had a highlight-worthy block on Victor Wembanyama at the rim in the first half, but his overall production wasn’t enough to put Risacher on the streaming radar. Naji Marshall and PJ Washington (12 points, four rebounds and two assists) are better fantasy options until Flagg returns.

PJ obviously had a very good game today, but let’s not over index on who he is. He’s historically been a hot and cold player. He will not get 13 rebounds very often, if it even happens again this season. That being said, Flagg hurt his shoulder, so if you wanted to grab PJ and see if he misses any time, there’s worse ways to use your adds.

Counting Sunday, Washington missed four straight and seven of the Mavericks’ final eight games of the season. The veteran forward appeared in 56 games, averaging 14.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.0 steals, 1.1 blocks and 1.4 three-pointers. Washington has averaged at least one steal and one blocked shot in each of his two full seasons with the Mavericks. Somehow under contract through 2029-30, Washington will remain a key cog in Dallas’ rotation but has essentially settled in as a fringe fantasy starter.

Washington and Marshall are poised to finish the 2025-26 season on the bench, as both players are doubtful for Sunday’s finale. The former has missed the Mavericks’ last three games, and the latter the last two. John Poulakidis and Tyler Smith have played rotation minutes in recent games, with the former logging 30 minutes in Friday’s loss to the Spurs.

Washington will remain out for a third straight game with this elbow injury. Khris Middleton should get another start in his place, though he only played 18 minutes in Wednesday’s loss. John Poulakidas ended up playing 29 minutes off the bench.

Washington has missed the Mavericks’ last two games, and he’s on track to miss a third on Friday. While Khris Middleton started Wednesday’s loss to the Suns, he only played 18 minutes. Don’t expect much production from the veteran forward on Friday.

Washington will miss a second straight game as he continues to deal with an elbow injury. The versatile forward has put up stats similar to last season, although his three-point shooting efficiency has regressed. In his absence, veteran Khris Middleton could receive another start.

Dallas will be missing a number of key players, which should pave the way for Khris Middleton to see more playing time. Dallas could also give more minutes to Tyler Smith and John Poulakidas.

Washington’s sore left elbow will keep him out of Tuesday’s game. While Klay Thompson and Khris Middleton are available, so is two-way player Tyler Smith, who’s likely to move into the rotation with Daniel Gafford also out.