‘Hometown Buffs Were Strong’ Don Bing Duo’s Perfect Partner Emerges
Washington is making a statement in the playoffs.
The Dallas Mavericks defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 105-101 in Game 2 of the 2023-2024 NBA Playoffs on Wednesday night at American Airlines Center. With the victory, Dallas improved to 2-1 in the best-of-seven series and clinched a spot in the Conference Finals.
Luka Doncic led the way with 22 points and 15 rebounds and Kyrie Irving added 22 points and seven assists, but there was another player who stole the show.
It was PJ Washington. Washington was the single biggest contributor to the win, scoring 27 points and grabbing six rebounds, 메이저 토토사이트 more than Doncic and Irving.
Washington’s performance wasn’t limited to that game. Throughout the playoffs, Washington’s performance has been nothing short of remarkable. In the first playoffs of his career, Washington is averaging 14.6 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 41% shooting from three-point range in nine games.
His scoring average and three-point shooting percentage are much higher than they were in the regular season, and he’s been a revelation on the big stage, leading Dallas’ offense. Washington has the best supporting cast for the one-two punch of Doncic and Irving. The Wizards are doing a great job of spacing the floor and capitalizing on the three-point opportunities that Doncic and Irving create.
His defense is also incredible. Washington hasn’t been a highly rated defender throughout his NBA career. In fact, it was more of a weakness than a strength. However, since joining Dallas, Washington’s defense has been phenomenal. His versatility to defend both guards and centers in one-on-one matchups has contributed to Dallas’ strong defense.
His play in the playoffs, when defenses get tougher, has been incredible. Washington’s defense was on full display in their first-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Clippers.
The Clippers have a big offense with Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, and James Harden leading the way. Washington played fantastic defense, rotating between all three players. Harden, in particular, was pressured from half-court and wore him down.
It’s a completely different Washington. Washington left the Charlotte Hornets at the trade deadline this season to join Dallas.
When the news of the trade was announced, Washington was ecstatic. That’s because Dallas is her hometown. Washington grew up in Dallas through high school and went to the prestigious University of Kentucky for college. Washington’s father was also a huge Dallas basketball fan.
For Washington, the trade to Dallas would have killed two birds with one stone: the opportunity to play for his hometown team and the chance to play for a powerhouse instead of an underdog. It’s no surprise that Washington’s focus and energy level changed.
Dallas is smiling at Washington’s performance. One trade at the trade deadline completed the package for Dallas.