It might have taken longer for the Golden State Warriors to re-sign JaVale McGee this summer, but they were still able to retain his services for the veteran’s minimum, keeping their championship-winning core intact.
There were a lot of talks about the 7-foot center not being pleased that the Dubs gave their mid-level exception to Nick Young, and only offered him a small contract. Still, McGee opted to re-join the team and once again help them win a title next season.
Warriors general manager Bob Myers, understands the importance of bringing him back, especially with what he offers inside the court. The front office executive discussed, via Damon Bruce of 95.7 The Game, how happy he is that McGee decided not to leave his team and that he is looking forward to see him continue giving them the vertical spacing they need.
“He was great for us. He gave us something nobody else did. It's what we call vertical spacing … catching a lob and dunking it — he's one of the best in the league at that. He got better defensively.”
“I think what it came down to was — he surveyed the market and what he came to the conclusion of is he liked what we were,” Myers explained. “And I guess going for another championship was compelling for him.
“We were certainly thrilled that he decided to come back and (he) gives us another weapon.”
Last summer, the 29-year-old Nevada product even had to compete for a roster spot after only being signed for a training camp deal. He impressed Steve Kerr and his staff and was rewarded with a guaranteed one-year deal. JaVale McGee made the most out of it, and proved that he belongs in the NBA. More importantly, he gave the Warriors a strong inside presence and rim protector, while averaging 6.1 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks in only 9.6 minutes per game.
Now with his new contract secured, JaVale McGee will have another chance to further establish himself as more than a serviceable big man in the league. If he can once again be a key piece to the Dubs and play solid basketball, he could be in line for a heftier deal starting next summer, and force his team to give him a bigger offer if they want to keep his services.
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