Mavericks Reveal Surprising Lineup Plans
And when the Mavs signed veteran 35-year-old JaVale McGee, everyone saw that as a great move for the bench.
But according to head coach Jason Kidd, the Mavs have a surprise in mind for their everyday lineup:
JaVale McGee will start at center, as the Mavs promised him during the free agency recruiting process. https://t.co/N1sYhwcyd4
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) September 26, 2022
Kidd says that McGee will be the starter—something they promised him as part of the deal to get him to come to Dallas. Kidd adds that Wood, meanwhile, a 20 point/10 rebound threat on a nightly basis, will act as a super Sixth Man.
“I don’t need him to be ‘The Microwave.’ I just need him to be C. Wood," says Kidd. Wood was actually surprised by the news, but doesn't seem to be bothered by it.
Christian Wood: “This is my first time hearing about it.”
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) September 26, 2022
He says he’s motivated to finally have a chance to win in the NBA and not too worried about whether he starts or comes off the bench. https://t.co/N1sYhwcyd4
To say that McGee is pumped for his new challenge, is an understatement.
JaVale McGee is already here roaring for the Mavs media day 🦁pic.twitter.com/t6QKekPtgP
— Mavs Nation (@MavsNationCP) September 26, 2022
McGee has been a starter only twice in the last ten seasons, both with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2018-19 and 2019-20. Since then, he's been putting in about 15 minutes per game off the bench for three different teams, including the Phoenix Suns last season where he was a key part of the second unit.
The 27-year-old Wood, in his past two breakout seasons as a starter with the Houston Rockets, has averaged 19.1 points, 9.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists, while shooting 38% on threes (39% last season).
Photos: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports, Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
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