The Lakers have been linked to P.J. Washington for much of the offseason.
Apparently, Luka Doncic would welcome the reunion.
Sean Deveney of Heavy Sports reported that Doncic is “in favor” of Los Angeles acquiring Washington, his former Mavericks teammate. The two helped Dallas reach the 2024 NBA Finals before Doncic was traded to the Lakers the following season.
Washington started all 22 games during that playoff run, averaging 13.0 points and 6.6 rebounds. His defense, size and ability to play alongside Doncic would seemingly address an obvious need for Los Angeles.
Of course, wanting Washington and actually trading for him are two very different things.
One report Sunday indicated that the Lakers and Mavericks have held advanced discussions involving Washington, though it added that nothing is imminent.
That report came after Jake Fischer of The Stein Line said in July that he had no indication Los Angeles and Dallas had engaged in trade talks of “real consequence” involving Washington or center Daniel Gafford.
The biggest obstacle may be Washington’s contract.
He is beginning a four-year, $88.8 million extension that runs through the 2029-30 season. His salary climbs from $19.8 million this year to $24.6 million in the final season.
“They don’t want that contract,” one Western Conference executive told Deveney of the Lakers.
Washington averaged 14.2 points and 7.0 rebounds in 56 games last season. Dallas has since extended Naji Marshall, traded for Santi Aldama and selected Morez Johnson Jr. with the No. 9 overall pick, creating a crowded frontcourt.
Still, Mavericks president Masai Ujiri is reportedly a fan of Washington, so there is no indication Dallas feels compelled to move him.
The Lakers have also pursued restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga and would need to send out multiple contracts to acquire Washington while remaining below the first apron.
Doncic may like the idea. Making the money and trade pieces work is the more difficult part.
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