JaVale McGee is a well-respected veteran around the league, winning two titles with the Golden State Warriors dynasty, and another one during the 2019-20 season. McGee has had a long tenure in the NBA as a role player, and his rebounding and rim-running is important for any team.
There’s no question that JaVale McGee has been a part of some great teams and played with some superstars. In a Bleacher Report AMA, McGee was asked to pick who he liked playing with more, LeBron James or Stephen Curry. McGee revealed that he preferred LeBron James, and referenced his first season with the Lakers.
I would probably say LeBron the first year I was on the Lakers.
During the 2018-19 season, his first season with the Los Angeles Lakers, JaVale McGee averaged 12.0 PPG and 7.5 RPG, and he had a much larger role than he did during his time with the Golden State Warriors. It would make sense for him to enjoy the expanded opportunity, rather than being a contributor with few minutes. While the 2019-20 season saw McGee take a reduced role once again, it seems as though his sacrifice was worth it, as the Los Angeles Lakers ended up winning the championship. Even in a small role, McGee found ways to contribute to the team.
This season, JaVale McGee will be with the Phoenix Suns, backing up young center Deandre Ayton. Ayton had a spectacular season this year, but with Dario Saric’s ACL injury, the Phoenix Suns lacked a solid backup big man in the playoffs, which may have cost them some games in the Finals. JaVale McGee will give them just that, a steady backup for Ayton who can fit into a backup role. Hopefully, the acquisition proves worth it for the Phoenix Suns, and it is quite possible that McGee will thrive.
