Blue Man Hoop
Fansided

Golden State Warriors should have their eye on impending free agent

By Peter O'Keefe

CLEVELAND, OH - JUNE 08: JaVale McGee #1 of the Golden State Warriors attempts a layup against the Cleveland Cavaliers during Game Four of the 2018 NBA Finals at Quicken Loans Arena on June 8, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - JUNE 08: JaVale McGee #1 of the Golden State Warriors attempts a layup against the Cleveland Cavaliers during Game Four of the 2018 NBA Finals at Quicken Loans Arena on June 8, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

Former Golden State Warriors’ big man Javale McGee is set to become a free agent following his impending departure from the Dallas Mavericks.

McGee, a two-time NBA champion with the Warriors in 2017 and 2018, is expected to have the remaining two years of his contract stretched-and-waived by the Mavericks according to The Athletic’s Shams Charania.

The Golden State Warriors could entertain a reunion with Javale McGee once the 35-year-old hits NBA free agency.

McGee’s papers were seemingly stamped in Dallas from early last season, averaging just 8.5 minutes across 42 games as the Mavericks sensationally missed the playoffs. His place in the pecking had only been further disturbed by the franchise’s acquisition of Richaun Holmes and 12th overall pick Dereck Lively II this offseason.

Golden State, still needing to solidify their center rotation beyond starting big man Kevon Looney, could hold interest in a reunion with the seven-footer using their vacant 14th roster spot.

JaVale McGee of the Golden State Warriors talks to friends during the Victory Parade on June 12, 2018 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
JaVale McGee of the Golden State Warriors talks to friends during the Victory Parade on June 12, 2018 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

McGee restored his value and reputation greatly during his short stint with the Warriors, making 142 regular season appearances in his two seasons with the franchise. That included 27 starts and a further 10 during the playoffs, nine of which came in the 2018 postseason.

The 15-year NBA veteran went on to become the primary starting center on the Los Angeles Lakers’ championship winning team in 2020, averaging 6.6 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.4 blocks in 16.6 minutes per game. Just two seasons ago McGee averaged over 15 minutes with the Phoenix Suns, putting up 9.2 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.1 blocks in 74 regular season appearances.

While there’s question marks on his capacity to contribute to a winning team at this stage of his career, there’s little doubt that his skills as a lob threat and rim protector could be incredibly valuable to the Warriors should he rediscover some form.

Next. Perfect two-way center becomes available for the Golden State Warriors. dark

After moving on from former number two overall pick James Wiseman at February’s trade deadline, Golden State are yet to add a seven-footer to their roster. McGee could prove to be that player, albeit in an incredibly limited role next season.

Home/Warriors News