P.J. Washington came to Dallas in a trade-deadline deal as the Mavericks looked to bolster the cast around Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Washington has provided somewhat of a spark, but it'll likely be tough for him to get going in tonight’s matchup against the Pacers.
Washington’s primary role on the Mavericks is as a spot-up shooter. In fact, 44 of his 93 field-goal attempts (47%) with Dallas have been of the catch-and-shoot variety.
The Pacers' defensive philosophy is to not help off of shooters. They allow the fewest points via spot-up shooting per game, on the lowest frequency.
Doncic and Irving should have a field day with their one-on-one matchups, but I’m not seeing much upside for Washington. The Kentucky product is only averaging 3.9 drives per game as a Maverick and is scoring only 1.9 points off of those drives.
I’m also tacking on assists, since Washington is only averaging 2.2 potential assists per game since joining Dallas. And by virtue of their no-help defense, the Pacers allow the sixth-fewest dimes per game to their opponents.
Washington only recorded two points and one assist in Dallas' previous matchup against the Pacers. And he’s stayed under this line in seven of nine games since coming over from the Hornets. I have him projected for 12 points and assists tonight.
