New Los Angeles Lakers recruit JaVale McGee has no intentions of being in L.A. just to enjoy the ride. In fact, the 7-foot big man is hoping to make a significant impact on the team by playing 30 minutes per contest.
When asked about his self-assessment on his projected playing time for the coming season, McGee was very straightforward with his response.
“I’d love to play 30 minutes a game.” — JaVale McGee
— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) October 3, 2018
If his performances in the Lakers' first two preseason contests are any indication, then McGee may have a decent shot at achieving his self-imposed goal, or at least coming close. Over the past two games — albeit both losses to the Denver Nuggets — the two-time NBA champion was the top scorer for his team on both occasions.
McGee was the starting center for both games and led the Lakers in scoring with 17 points in a little less than 20 minutes in the preseason opener on Sunday. He shot 8-of-10 from the field and chipped in seven rebounds and a block for good measure.
McGee was impressive again on Tuesday, scoring 15 points on 5-of-8 shooting to go along with eight rebounds, one steal, and five blocks. He also hit 5-of-6 from the charity stripe in just 19 minutes.
The 30-year-old big man actually has a very good shot at being the team's starting center this season. His only competition is 21-year-old Ivica Zubac and rookie Moritz Wagner, who is injured.
Over the past two seasons with the Golden State Warriors, McGee averaged only 9.5 minutes off the bench. However, his per-36 minutes numbers during the 2016-17 season were terrific: 23.0 points, 11.9 rebounds, 0.9 steals, and 3.3 blocks. If he could just put up half of those numbers for the Lakers this season, then he could get his wish of playing at least 30 minutes per night.
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