One of many NBA‘s top-performing groups this season, the Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder, entered their matchup in opposition to the Dallas Mavericks using excessive on an 11-2 document. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been the cornerstone of their success, delivering MVP-caliber performances. Nonetheless, the Mavericks, regardless of lacking their star Luka Doncic, discovered a hero in PJ Washington, whose stellar play proved decisive in Dallas’ victory.
The win marked a turning level for the Mavericks, who now sit at 7-7. Struggling to search out consistency early within the season, the crew discovered their rhythm in opposition to Oklahoma Metropolis, demonstrating resilience in Doncic’s absence. Washington stepped up because the catalyst, supported by key contributions from different gamers.
After the sport, PJ Washington mirrored on the victory and his matchup in opposition to Gilgeous-Alexander. “Yeah, I like enjoying right here,” Washington stated with a smile. “I went to highschool with Shai, so I like matching up in opposition to him. He’s a terrific participant. I like beating him too.”
Washington’s stats in opposition to the Thunder
Washington’s influence was simple. In simply 28 minutes, he delivered a season-best efficiency, scoring 27 factors on environment friendly taking pictures. He hit 7-of-13 from the sphere, together with 3-of-4 from past the arc, and was an ideal 10-for-10 from the free-throw line.
PJ Washington #25 of the Dallas Mavericks places up a shot in entrance of Aaron Wiggins #21 of the Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder in the course of the second half at Paycom Heart on November 17, 2024 in Oklahoma Metropolis, Oklahoma.
Moreover, Washington hauled in 17 rebounds, dished out 2 assists, and recorded a block, solidifying his function because the Mavericks’ go-to participant in Doncic’s absence.
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Washington’s profession numbers vs. the Thunder
Washington’s standout recreation was no fluke; he has a historical past of elevating his play in opposition to the Thunder. Throughout his 5 seasons with the Charlotte Hornets, he persistently carried out properly in opposition to Oklahoma Metropolis.
Throughout 339 profession minutes in opposition to the franchise, Washington has tallied 190 factors, together with a career-high 43 factors in 2023. In that recreation, he shot 16-of-24 from the sphere and 5-of-9 from three-point vary.
Past scoring, Washington’s contributions in opposition to the Thunder embody 75 rebounds, 17 assists, 11 steals, and 12 blocks. His effectivity has additionally been notable, changing 68-of-142 area targets, 21-of-60 three-pointers, and 33-of-46 free throws. Whereas turnovers have sometimes been a difficulty, his general influence stays simple.
