JaVale McGee's playoff performances have been just the jolt of energy that the Golden State Warriors needed to start this postseason run. Yet what is most surprising is that he ranks 28th all-time in win shares per 48 minutes among players logging over 500 playoff minutes, according to Andy Bailey of Bleacher Report.
This puts him ahead of the likes of Reggie Miller, Oscar Robertson, Bill Russell, Kevin McHale, Larry Bird, Moses Malone, John Stockton, and Kobe Bryant, to name a few.
While this seems like a mind-boggling stat, it is McGee's per-minute effectiveness that has contributed to the success of this team.
The Warriors center played in more playoff games last postseason (16) than he had in the previous eight seasons of his NBA career (15).
This postseason has shined the light in just how effective his limited presence has been, putting up 10.3 points per game on 76.5 percent from the field along with five rebounds and 1.3 blocks in only 16.7 minutes per game.
McGee, despite still getting some flack for his clumsy antics in the past — has been an undeniable reason this roster has played with a lot more freedom — providing a lob-catching target that can score in the paint and create extra opportunities on the offensive glass.
He’s also 1st among players with at least 500 playoff minutes in passes thrown over the backboard on a fastbreak
— Deandre Hayton (@YCSNOW23) April 20, 2018
While most of the names keeping him company in this list are or will be in the Hall of Fame and McGee isn't in the same line of storied caliber — the fact that he's ranked among them speaks to his impact on the floor, regardless of his limited playing time for this team with boasts plenty of championship pedigree.
Follow Us
Subscribe