Three-Time Champion Center! Why 36-Year-Old JaVale McGee Struggles to Find a Team

JaVale McGee, once a crucial piece in multiple championship teams, now faces the harsh reality of potentially being without an NBA team. As the free agency period extends beyond the two-week mark, McGee remains unsigned, with scarcely any rumors circulating about potential suitors. This lack of interest is a troubling sign, often indicating that a player is on the verge of being forgotten by the league and media alike—a prelude to an impending farewell to the NBA.

Decline in Performance

Similar to many free agents still on the market, McGee's current predicament stems largely from a decline in his performance. Last season, McGee joined the Sacramento Kings on a minimum contract, but his impact was minimal. He played in 46 games, averaging just 7.4 minutes per contest and contributing 4.0 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 0.4 blocks per game—all career lows. While his efficiency in scoring remained respectable with a 59.8% field goal percentage, McGee's overall performance on both ends of the court has significantly deteriorated. His once-effective pick-and-roll play and defensive capabilities have diminished with age, leaving him as a marginal player.

A Storied Career

In some ways, McGee has already achieved a remarkable career. From 2017 to 2020, he won three NBA championships—first with the Golden State Warriors for two consecutive years, then with the Los Angeles Lakers. After his third title, McGee joined the Cleveland Cavaliers before being traded to the Denver Nuggets within the same season. His time with both teams was unremarkable, particularly with the Nuggets, where he struggled to contribute effectively as Nikola Jokić’s backup.

Revival with the Suns

The 2021 offseason saw McGee sign a one-year, $5 million deal with the Phoenix Suns. The Suns, fresh off a Finals appearance, brought in McGee as Deandre Ayton's backup. This stint unexpectedly revitalized McGee's career. In 74 games, including 17 starts, he averaged 9.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks in 15.8 minutes per game, with an impressive 62.9% shooting accuracy. Beyond his on-court contributions, McGee emerged as a locker room leader, famously leading Ayton and Mikal Bridges in pre-game routines that endeared him to Suns fans. Despite the team’s disappointing playoff exit to the Dallas Mavericks, McGee’s overall performance earned him a three-year, $20 million contract with Dallas, with a player option in the final year.

The Dallas Disappointment

Unfortunately, McGee's tenure with the Mavericks turned out to be a costly mistake for the team. He played just 42 games, averaging 8.5 minutes per game and posting 4.4 points and 2.5 rebounds per game on 64.0% shooting. While he remained efficient in scoring, his overall impact was negative—Dallas had a net rating of -7.3 points per 100 possessions when he was on the floor. This stark decline in effectiveness led to McGee being waived under the stretch provision, spreading his remaining $11.7 million over five years.

The Fall of Athletic Big Men

McGee’s situation is reminiscent of other athletic big men whose careers quickly declined, such as DeAndre Jordan. Once an All-NBA First Team and All-Defensive First Team member, Jordan’s decline was abrupt, though he managed to secure a role with the Denver Nuggets due to his close relationship with Jokić. McGee, despite his current lack of a team, will continue to receive $2.35 million annually from the Mavericks for the next four seasons due to his waived contract.

A Solid NBA Career

Zooming out, McGee’s career is far from a failure. Drafted 18th overall in 2008, he has played 16 seasons in the NBA, won three championships, and even secured an Olympic gold medal with Team USA in 2021. His total career earnings exceed $80 million, and he remains a recognizable figure among NBA fans.

The Current Market and Future Prospects

It's worth noting that McGee’s signing with the Kings last September happened late in the offseason. With centers being a scarce commodity in the current free agency market, there’s still a chance a team might offer McGee a veteran minimum contract. Such a deal would likely be motivated more by his championship experience and locker room presence than by expectations of significant on-court contributions.

Conclusion

For JaVale McGee, the harsh reality of aging and declining performance is setting in. While his playing days may be dwindling, his career achievements and the respect he has garnered from teammates and fans alike ensure his legacy is secure. Whether or not he finds a new team this season, McGee's journey through the NBA has been nothing short of noteworthy.