The Golden State Warriors may sign a $46.5 million contract, according to NBA trade rumors. The Dallas Mavericks star will increase the chances of winning the championship by forming a lethal tandem with Stephen Curry
The Golden State Warriors, long celebrated for their dynasty built around Stephen Curry, may be preparing for yet another bold move to regain their championship form. Rumors have been swirling that the team is considering acquiring Dallas Mavericks forward P.J. Washington, who is under a \$46.5 million contract. If the deal materializes, it could signal a major shift in Golden State’s approach—one that pivots toward pairing Curry with younger, athletic contributors to extend his prime and elevate the team’s chances at another NBA title. While nothing has been confirmed, the chatter surrounding this potential acquisition has stirred excitement and speculation across the league.
P.J. Washington, known for his two-way capabilities, provides a mix of skills the Warriors have lacked in recent years. He’s a versatile power forward with a strong defensive presence, a reliable three-point shot, and the ability to guard multiple positions. His fit within the Warriors’ system—predicated on movement, spacing, and switch-heavy defense—would be nearly seamless. Golden State has been searching for a frontcourt player who can provide spacing while not being a liability on defense, and Washington checks both boxes. More importantly, he’s young, athletic, and durable—all valuable traits for a team trying to support an aging core.
Stephen Curry remains the focal point of the Warriors’ identity. His gravity, both on and off the ball, creates opportunities for teammates in ways that are nearly unmatched in the modern NBA. Over the last few seasons, however, it has become clear that relying solely on Curry’s brilliance is no longer enough. Injuries to key players, aging veterans, and the departure of depth pieces have made it increasingly difficult for the Warriors to mount deep playoff runs. Enter P.J. Washington, who could serve as the ideal complementary piece. His ability to run in transition, hit open threes, and defend multiple positions gives Curry the kind of running mate he hasn’t had consistently since the days of Kevin Durant.
For Golden State, the acquisition of Washington would represent more than just a roster move—it would be a strategic recalibration. The franchise has tried to thread the needle between competing now and developing young talent for the future. Players like Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, and even former top pick James Wiseman were expected to bridge that gap, but the results have been mixed. Trading for a player like Washington may suggest that the Warriors are finally committing fully to the “win-now” approach again. It’s a message to Curry, and to the fan base, that they’re not willing to waste whatever time remains in their superstar’s prime.
From Dallas’s perspective, the rumors indicate a willingness to make roster changes despite their own impressive playoff run. Washington’s fit with Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving was solid but not irreplaceable. The Mavericks might see value in offloading his contract to create more financial flexibility or to acquire different kinds of role players. If Golden State is willing to include young assets or future picks, Dallas could see it as a way to maintain competitiveness while improving long-term roster structure.
Financially, acquiring Washington won’t be easy. He’s currently on a three-year, \$46.5 million deal, meaning the Warriors will need to move salary to make the trade work. Chris Paul’s non-guaranteed contract could be used in a sign-and-trade, or the Warriors might consider parting with other veterans or young prospects. While owner Joe Lacob has expressed some caution regarding luxury tax spending, the franchise has shown time and again that they’re willing to spend if it means competing for a championship. With Curry, Klay Thompson (assuming he re-signs), and Draymond Green all in their 30s, the window is shrinking. Moves like this may be necessary if another banner is to be raised at Chase Center.
Beyond the tactical and financial considerations, there’s also the question of chemistry. Washington is not a star in the traditional sense; he’s more of a high-end role player or borderline starter. But on a team like the Warriors, where roles are clearly defined and system play is emphasized, he could thrive. Kerr’s offense rewards players who move well without the ball, make quick decisions, and play unselfishly—traits that align well with Washington’s game. Defensively, he could slot in alongside Draymond Green to form a versatile, switch-heavy frontcourt that can defend the perimeter while still protecting the rim.
Curry’s ability to play both on and off the ball would also benefit Washington. In Dallas, much of the offensive creation was concentrated in the hands of Dončić and Irving. With Golden State, Washington would have more freedom to attack closeouts, crash the offensive glass, and make plays within the flow of the offense. In essence, the spotlight would be shared, and that can often unlock new levels in a player’s development. The Warriors’ culture—centered on accountability, communication, and constant motion—could be the environment where Washington thrives.
Should the trade go through, the Warriors would be looking at a new core built around Curry, Washington, and possibly Jimmy Butler, who has also been linked to Golden State in recent rumors. Butler, if acquired or already added via another deal, would instantly boost their perimeter defense and toughness. A lineup featuring Curry, Butler, Green, Washington, and potentially Thompson could be among the most experienced and competitive in the league. With Kerr’s coaching and the team’s championship DNA, it would be hard to count them out of title contention.
But risks remain. Injuries have plagued the Warriors over the past few seasons. Klay Thompson’s health and productivity have declined. Draymond Green remains one of the most unique players in the NBA, but his age and disciplinary history could become liabilities. And while Curry continues to play at an MVP level, there’s only so much he can do without the right support around him. The margin for error is thin, and trading for Washington is not a guaranteed home run. Yet it might be the type of calculated risk the team needs to take.
There’s also the broader Western Conference landscape to consider. Teams like Denver, Minnesota, and Oklahoma City are emerging as dominant forces. Even without major changes, those teams are younger, deeper, and arguably better-positioned for long-term success than Golden State. If the Warriors want to remain in the conversation, standing still is not an option. They must be proactive. They must take swings. And acquiring Washington could be one of those swings that pays off—either directly or as a piece in a larger retooling effort.
Fan reaction to these rumors has been mixed but largely hopeful. Many see the value in adding a young, versatile forward who fits the Warriors’ style of play. Others are wary of giving up future assets or potential stars like Kuminga or Moody, especially considering Washington is not a top-tier name. But championship windows don’t last forever, and if there’s one thing the Warriors organization has shown over the past decade, it’s a willingness to bet big when it counts.
Golden State’s interest in P.J. Washington represents more than just an attempt to upgrade a roster. It’s a statement of intent—a declaration that they’re not content with being a middle-of-the-pack team in the twilight of Curry’s career. It’s a reminder that dynasties don’t last by accident. They last because teams are willing to evolve, to adapt, and to take risks. The Warriors have already cemented their legacy with four championships. But with a move like this, they might be setting the stage for one more unforgettable run.
As we wait for further developments, it’s clear that the Warriors are once again at a crossroads. They can choose to hold onto their current assets and hope that internal growth and continuity are enough. Or they can swing for the fences and try to capture lightning in a bottle one more time. If the latter path leads them to P.J. Washington, it could be the first domino in a thrilling new chapter for Golden State basketball.
Regardless of what happens, the message is clear: as long as Stephen Curry is on the court, the Warriors will do everything in their power to chase glory. Adding a \$46.5 million forward from Dallas might just be the next big step in that pursuit.
