A report from Marc Stein of ESPN links the Raptors to recently waived center JaVale McGee.
The Toronto Raptors are reportedly mulling over potentially acquiring free-agent to be center JaVale McGee, who is said to have a strong relationship with Masai Ujiri.
Ujiri signed McGee to a regretful 4-year, $44 million deal in 2012. McGee was placed on waiver by the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday.
Also hearing you can add Toronto to the list of teams weighing whether to make a play for JaVale McGee, who clears waivers today at 5 PM
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) March 4, 2015
McGee's big contract with Nuggets, of course, was awarded by Raps GM Masai Ujiri, who had strong relationship with the 7-footer in Denver
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) March 4, 2015
There’s a few things to note.
First, McGee is a serviceable center. His reputation as a knucklehead is well-warranted, but so is his spot in the NBA. The 27-year-old McGee is a hyper-athletic shot-blocker who can be effective in the right system. Two years ago, McGee posted a 20.7 PER in 79 games played in Denver. For a team woefully short on center depth like the Raptors, McGee represents a worthwhile gamble.
Second, McGee comes with injury concerns. McGee has been limited to 28 games played over the last two seasons. He suffered a stress fracture of the left tibia 2014 and has since struggled to stay on the court.
Third, there are other teams on the chase. The Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors and Miami Heat have also been linked to McGee.
Fourth, as Hassan Whiteside taught us, taking a flyer on a 7-footer is always a worthwhile gamble.
Fifth, this
Masai loves McGee but no chance Raptors go over tax to get him.
— Ryan Wolstat (@WolstatSun) March 4, 2015
Sixth, McGee is more fun to play against, than he is to play for your team.
