Report: Mavericks open 'exploratory' discussions with JaVale McGee
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At what point do you start feeling bad for Dirk Nowitzki?
The Dallas Mavericks have opened discussions with free-agent center JaVale McGee, reported Shams Charania of RealGM.
While ESPN's Marc Stein called the talks "exploratory", the fact is the Mavs need something in the middle.
The 7-foot McGee is a far cry from DeAndre Jordan, but the Mavericks are trying to make the most of a difficult situation. Since Jordan left them holding the bag, Dallas has been scrambling to restock their roster with scant remains in free agency.
In that sense, McGee is a high-upside gamble. He was a productive player once for the Denver Nuggets, but his effectiveness has since waned due to injuries. A fractured tibia limited him to just 23 games played last season.
On a good day, McGee could serve as a bouncy center with the athleticism and size to block shots and finish lobs. McGee is only two seasons removed from a 20.7 PER season.
On a bad day, McGee is a coach's nightmare.
The Mavericks acquired Zaza Pachulia this summer, so McGee wouldn't have to start. Dallas is also reportedly showing interest in center Kevin Seraphin.
Ironically enough, McGee was drawing serious interest from the Los Angeles Clippers earlier this summer. Jordan's decision changed that, too.