NBA Rumors: Lakers, Mavericks frontrunners to sign JaVale McGee
JaVale McGee is still recovering from injury, but could be bound for the Western Conference when he signs.
JaVale McGee has played in just 28 games over the past two NBA seasons, largely due to injuries. However, the 27-year-old center is still looking for a role in the league and is one of the top free agents left on the market this summer. As he tries to continue his recovery, it’s becoming more clear where he’ll be playing next season.
According to Alex Kennedy of Basketball Insiders, McGee’s primary focus is still on his health right now, but the Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks are currently at the top of the list in terms of potential destinations.
Sources close to JaVale McGee say he's focused on getting healthy. Several teams have shown interest. Mavs, Lakers seem like frontrunners.
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) August 8, 2015
Throughout his career McGee has continually been one of the most enigmatic presences in the NBA. While he’s shown flashes of excellence, his moments of incompetence and tomfoolery are what he’s best known for. That hasn’t stopped a number of teams from banking on potential that’s clearly there for a seven-footer who possesses incredible athleticism.
The Mavs’ interest in McGee goes back to losing out on the DeAndre Jordan sweepstakes in early July. Meanwhile, the Lakers continue looking for talent to put around Kobe Bryant and their young core of D’Angelo Russell, Jordan Clarkson and Julius Randle. If healthy, McGee would be a solid addition to either squad, as both are in need of depth at the position.
However, health remains the primary concern. Even the good side of McGee is irrelevant if he can only stay healthy enough to play 28 games over the course of two seasons. Hopefully his focus is truly on getting, and staying, healthy, and that he’s able to contribute in the NBA this season.
[B/R]