The Dallas Mavericks reportedly hope to start shooting better. In the meantime, Mavericks Power Forward PJ Washington has gotten off to a good start defensively. Mavericks Head Coach Jason Kidd wished the team had four players similar to Washington, as most other players could’ve played better.
Previously, Dallas fell to the Houston Rockets 108-102 in a home game at the American Airlines Center on Thursday evening. The Mavericks’ offensive effort was below average, but the home team’s defense was also disappointing. The Rockets’ shooting was subpar, but the Rockets demolished the Mavs on the offensive glass, which led to 20 second-chance points. Coach Kidd praised Washington and much more after the Mavericks’ tough home loss to the Rockets. Read on for Coach Kidd’s recent statements to the media.
Jason Kidd’s Wish
Jason Kidd’s recent wish might be wishful thinking, but Kidd — and any other head coach in the NBA — can dream, right? After the Dallas Mavericks vs. Houston Rockets game, Kidd not only praised PJ Washington for his efforts but wished the other players were similar to him.
Kidd said in his postgame press conference, “We need four PJ Washington’s to guard. He’s done everything we asked…We can’t rely on PJ to turn off everyone’s water.” Last year, Dallas acquired Washington, who has become an ideal defensive chess player for the Mavericks. Washington’s most recent performance included three steals, three blocks, and nine rebounds in Thursday’s losing effort. The 26-year-old also played several minutes as a small center after Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford experienced foul troubles.
Jason Kidd Succeeds
On the court, Jason Kidd is achieving success as the Dallas Mavericks head coach. Kidd’s head coaching gig was questionable for some people at the time of his hiring in 2021, as his domestic violence past resurfaced, which stirred the pot when it comes to off-the-court issues.
The Mavericks defense has been stellar this season. The Mavericks currently have the 11th-best defensive rating. However, the Mavericks’ offense is arguably their biggest issue. That said, a solid solution would see the defense help the offense get out in transition more often.
Kidd Is Right
Jason Kidd is likely right when it comes to the Dallas Mavericks’ acquisition of PJ Washington in exchange for Grant Williams, Seth Curry, and a future first-round draft pick. Washington quickly made an impact on the Mavericks’ defense, even though he had some rough shooting nights.
Washington’s quick — and rather consistent — impact helped the Mavericks become one of the best defenses in the NBA. Friday’s practice was reportedly filled with the calming sounds of gospel music instead of the usual rhythmic rap songs. Washington recently explained the Mavericks’ change of music to Mavs.com, “You can’t just beat the ears up all day with rap … Sometimes you got to take it easy.”
Washington’s recent explanation made perfect sense. The Mavericks are currently seventh in the NBA in fouls with 24 per game. The Mavericks’ No. 7 ranking included their 27 fouls in Thursday’s game. The team’s fouls were one of the focal points discussed during the subsequent film session.
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