NBA Rumors: 3 Leading Destinations For JaVale McGee

The Dallas Mavericks this week officially decided to move on from veteran center JaVale McGee, stretch-and waiving him on a buyout.

The 35-year-old's three-year deal with Dallas last summer to be their starting center didn't quite work out. He was dropped from coach Jason Kidd's rotation after just seven games, and was an afterthought as the season went on. 

But with bit roles in three past championships, there could be some teams that would be interested in utilizing McGee's size, rim protection and rim-running for a few minutes here and there. 

Here are three teams that would be top potential destinations.

Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers are indeed in the market for a backup center, and McGee was part of their 2020 Championship team. He actually started 11 of the 14 playoff games he participated in, though averaged just nine minutes per night and 2.9 points. 

Fans are already clamoring for a reunion. 

The Mavericks are expected to waive Javale McGee.

Lakers are still in the market for a backup center 🤔

Reunion? 👀

pic.twitter.com/aO6QUWeHKu

— The Laker Files (@LakerFiles) August 22, 2023

Golden State Warriors

Go back a couple of more years into his past, and JaVale had a two-year title run with the Dubs. This is another homecoming of sorts that makes a lot of sense. McGee played an important role for those Warriors teams, albeit, again, in limited minutes. But his 5.5 points, 2.9 rebounds and one block were super productive, as his per-36-minute stats were 20.8 points, 11 rebounds and 3.3 blocks. 

After Kevon Looney, the Dubs don't have a true center on the roster. 

Oklahoma City Thunder

Going to the other end of the spectrum, McGee could be a nice fit for a young team on the rise. Although this fun, up-and-coming squad has a couple of 7-footers, they don't really have a true center/rim-protector. McGee could add a veteran presence to the frontcourt who knows how to win, and to mentor the OKC kids. 

Plenty of options for JaVale to consider, and he'll likely find a new home by the time training camp rolls around. 

 Photo: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports