In the NBA, contract extensions are never guaranteed, even for established players. Unlike Stephen Curry, whose integral role with the Golden State Warriors ensures his security, most players face uncertainty regarding their future. This brings us to PJ Washington and his tenure with the Dallas Mavericks. As a key contributor, Washington is indeed eligible for a contract extension, prompting speculation about his long-term fit with the team.

His versatility, defensive prowess, and ability to stretch the floor make him a valuable asset, but questions remain about whether the Mavericks will prioritize securing his future or explore other roster-building options.

ClutchPoints reporter, Brett Siegel, tweeted on Friday: “Dallas Mavericks forward PJ Washington is officially eligible for a four-year, roughly $90 million extension starting today. The two sides are expected to reach an agreement on a new deal.”

Looks like PJ Washington has reached the point in his contract where he can now negotiate a new long-term deal with the Dallas Mavericks. Most importantly, he qualifies for a four-year extension worth around $90 million. Both Washington and the team are going to work out terms, which would secure his future in Dallas for the next several seasons.

But here’s the thing that makes his future a bit too gloomy for one’s liking. The 27-year-old Louisville-born power forward seems set on signing his extension now. According to the NBA CBA, when a player signs a veteran contract extension, they cannot be traded for six months from the date of signing or until the following February 15, whichever is later, if the extension exceeds certain salary thresholds (e.g., more than a 20% raise from the final year of the current contract). This restriction is not technically a “no-trade clause” but a trade moratorium due to CBA rules on extend-and-trade limits.

Once February arrives, that protection ends, and the Mavericks can trade him without his consent. So it is a temporary safeguard, not permanent security.

If the contract is structured to keep him trade-eligible (e.g., $73.2 million over four years), he could be traded immediately, but sources suggest Dallas prefers to retain him as a core piece.

Another interesting point to note here is that Washington is seemingly a good option for the Golden State Warriors, who are finding ways to make it through the Jonathan Kuminga drama. The 22-year-old has rejected the $45 million deal with a team option in his second year. And he’s not going to waive the no-trade clause anytime soon. But PJ Washington could be the solution, per G.C. Bellchambers.

Warriors urged to seek PJ Washington as Kuminga’s replacement

NBA insider G. C. Bellchambers has tossed a bold idea on the table. He believes the Golden State Warriors should chase Dallas forward P. J. Washington is the perfect swap for Jonathan Kuminga. Talks with Kuminga have hit a wall since he rejected the Warriors’ offer, and the stalemate has already cost them key free agent opportunities. His future now looks like a ticking clock set for departure.

Bellchambers argues Kuminga’s unclear role under Steve Kerr makes it almost certain he will be moved, either this offseason or by the trade deadline. If Golden State can move his salary, they could target Washington next. His skill set fits perfectly alongside Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green. But there is urgency, as Washington is likely to lock in for the $90 M extension with Dallas soon, limiting trade chances until next year.

The clock is already ticking on PJ Washington’s future. Dallas wants him locked, Golden State wants him free, and the league watches with folded arms. Extensions can soothe, but they can also suffocate, especially when February pulls the safety net away. Kuminga’s saga adds spice, yet Washington holds the sharper edge. In the end, one deal could flip two franchises at once.