Jason Kidd on the additions of P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford: “I thought it was seamless, for just one game. It seemed like they had been with us for pretty much the year. The excitement of our leaders to be able to play with the two new guys was shown.”
Jason Kidd's plans for Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington with the Dallas Mavericks
NBATuesday, 13 February 2024 at 08:00
The Dallas Mavericks made a few changes to the roster last week at the trade deadline, adding Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington while saying goodbye to Grant Williams. This was no accident and head coach Jason Kidd has some plans in place for how he will use the new recruits.
Kidd recently revealed that Washington could be a member of the starting five before the All-Star Break while Gafford would likely have to wait until the team has some injuries and needs backup.
Of course, that statement was made before both Washington and Gafford performed in Saturday night's massive 146-111 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. During that match, Washington scored 14 points and 5 rebounds, while Gafford put up 19 points and 9 rebounds.
Does that mean that Kidd could change his mind and actually start Gafford even if the rest of the team is healthy? It depends on how many more chances the young player gets to wow his new coach.
Dereck Lively II is currently out with an injury and could be gone during Wednesday's game against the San Antonio Spurs. That would give Gafford a great chance to shine again. As for Washington, he could start on Monday night after the Washington Wizards.
Kidd has plans for both of these players but they could be changed if injuries pop up and both stars continue to impress.
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