P.J. Washington's bold prediction proves Mavericks are deadlier than before

Last season, the Dallas Mavericks made a move at the trade deadline that fans were begging for the summer before.

Mavs fans wanted Dallas to sign P.J. Washington in restricted free agency but the Mavs didn't show interest. Things quickly changed in February when Dallas gave up a considerable haul including a first-round pick to trade for Washington, and he has been a key contributor ever since.

Washington became one of the best defenders on the team right away, and his 3-point shooting and grit were some of the many ways he helped the Mavs win the Western Conference and reach the NBA Finals.

P.J. Washington is dialed in on winning the NBA Finals with 'new group'

Washington became a fan favorite during the Mavs' playoff run, and fans' love for him is only going to increase next season as he has been in the gym as much as anyone and his outlook for next season (subscription required) is exactly what fans wanted to hear.

"Obviously, we have a new group," Washington told Mike Curtis of Dallas Morning News. "I’m excited to mesh with those guys and see how good we can be. I believe we can do it and win it all and that’s our goal."

Washington believes that Dallas can win the NBA Finals next season, and their new group of guys is a big reason for that.

Dallas went out and signed Klay Thompson, Spencer Dinwiddie, and Naji Marshall, and they also traded for Quentin Grimes. All three of those players are poised to be difference-makers for the Mavs next season, and Washington is ready to "mesh" with this new group and get back on the floor.

Washington had the chance to get to know this group of new guys during the team trip to Los Angeles, and he spoke highly of having the opportunity to do that. Spending time together as a team over a month before training camp is only going to help the vibes going into next season, and the relationships among the players can make or break a team's season.

As shown last year, the Mavs are at their best when everyone is on the same page on and off the floor. That group loved playing together, and when you have that type of chemistry, you're going to be hard to beat.

Fast forward to this season and Dallas is showing all the signs that they are going to have another great season. They are already spending time together off the floor, and Washington's focus on improving his ball handling and playmaking this summer is only going to help Dallas and their overall goal of winning the NBA Finals.

Dallas is going to be in great shape if Washington's game takes a leap going into next season, and his goal and belief that the Mavs can "win it all," could turn into a reality if the new-look squad clicks like everyone knows they can.