3 Studs, 2 duds from Mavericks' blowout Game 5 win over Clippers

2. Dud - P.J. Washington

Dallas Mavericks forward P.J. Washington continues to be one of the best defenders for the Mavs in this series, but his offensive struggles continued into Game 5. Washington finished with two points while shooting 1-7 from the field, 0-4 from three, and he missed both of his free throws.

Washington doesn't seem to have the same confidence he had at one point from downtown, and despite getting good looks, he hasn't been able to cash them in. He is a huge X-factor for this team and has stepped up several times in this series when the Mavs have needed him. but it's clear they still need a little bit more from him.

Heading into Game 6, Washington's huge defensive assignment of guarding Paul George and James Harden will continue. His defense has been superb ever since the Mavs traded for him, and his physicality, tenacity, and team-first attitude have made him the perfect fit in Dallas.

The Mavs have been a completely different team ever since they traded for Daniel Gafford and Washington, and Washington has been a huge upgrade over Grant Williams. While Washington hasn't been able to shoot as well as Williams did, Washington has been much better than him on defense.

Washington's struggles offensively are a bit concerning, but his defense more than makes up for it.