5 Things Dallas Mavericks fans should root for, 5 to root against to close season

4. For: P.J. Washington's hot shooting to continue

When the Dallas Mavericks traded for P.J. Washington at the trade deadline, it was a move that excited many fans. Washington is someone who many Mavs fans wanted them to sign over the summer, and their wish came true when Dallas traded for him.

So far for Dallas, Washington is averaging 10.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game while shooting 40.3 percent from the field and 28.9 percent from downtown. Washington has been elite defensively for the Mavs, but his 3-point shooting has been a concern.

Lately, Washington's shooting has been much better, and the Mavs need him to be a consistent shooter in the playoffs. Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving create the most open looks in the league, and Washington has to cash in his open looks.

Dallas will continue to play Washington heavy minutes due to his defense, and in the playoffs, teams will likely do whatever they can to slow down Doncic and Irving. This could involve making the role players beat them, and Washington is going to get a bunch of good looks if this happens.

Washington's confidence has not changed, even through his rough shooting stretch, and he has shown the ability to be a consistent shooter when playing with confidence and rhythm.

His teammates will continue to feed him. It's up to him to make the most of these open looks.