Why is P.J. Washington not playing against Hornets tonight? Mavericks star's absence from game explored (Feb. 27)

Dallas Mavericks star P.J. Washington is sidelined for Thursday's game against his former team, the Charlotte Hornets. Mavericks beat reporter Noah Weber announced the news about Washington on X (formerly Twitter).

Per ESPN, Washington is managing a right ankle sprain. He was listed as questionable following Dallas' 107-99 loss to the LA Lakers on Tuesday. The Mavericks faced their former franchise star, Luka Doncic, for the first time in that game.

Dallas coach Jason Kidd spoke about Washington's lingering ankle issues pregame:

"The concern is high, coming off this road trip and coming back home and for his ankle, hopefully he can heal here quickly and is ready to go for Saturday, but unfortunately he can’t go today," Kidd said.

Washington and the Mavericks will host Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday.

P.J. Washington and the Mavericks fall short against former star Luka Doncic and the Lakers

On Tuesday, P.J. Washington and the Dallas Mavericks faced Luka Doncic for the first time.

For Dallas, Kyrie Irving led the attack with 32 points, seven rebounds and four assists. He shot 12-for-27 (5-for-11 from downtown). Klay Thompson contributed 22 points and eight rebounds on 8-for-17 shooting, including 5-for-10 from the 3-point line.

Washington was held scoreless in Tuesday's matchup but had 10 rebounds, five assists and four blocks. He played nearly 35 minutes and missed all nine field goal attempts.

Doncic finished with a triple-double performance. He had 19 points, 15 rebounds and 12 assists. LeBron James added 27 points and 12 rebounds for the hosts.

Anthony Davis, who was part of the blockbuster trade earlier this month, is still out due to a groin injury. Meanwhile, according to coach Jason Kidd, Dwight Powell is available for the Mavericks game against the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday, albeit on a minutes restriction.