Lakers center JaVale McGee will opt into the final year of his contract, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic, who reports (via Twitter) that the big man is exercising his $4.2MM player option.
McGee, who will turn 33 in January, was the Lakers’ starting center during the 2019/20 regular season, averaging 6.6 PPG, 5.7 RPG, and 1.4 BPG in 68 contests (16.6 MPG).
One of several Lakers who had an option decision, McGee was expected to take the guaranteed money rather than test the free agent waters. Thus, it won’t significantly alter the team’s cap outlook. With Anthony Davis‘ $32.7MM cap hold and others to account for, the team would have been over the cap whether or not McGee had opted in.
McGee has found a home in L.A. over the last two seasons, establishing himself as a starter who plays limited but valuable minutes. He’s likely to fill the same role next season.
Yay! Welcome back!
That wasn’t a very team friendly opt-in
It’s a very team friendly trade piece..
He has been a very valuable asset for the Lakers>
Warriors should send a 2nd rounder or 2 to them grt him back. Use part of that trade exception
Does this mean that the lakers know that they can no longer sign dwight howard?
It was Mcgee’s choice. No reason for the Lakers to be upset about it. Solid short-minute center except in lockups.
I read that the Lakers are intent on resigning Morris, Howard and Cousins. Now its a matter of whether they keep 3 centers or what I think is more likely to include McGee as part of a trade for another player. I expect the Lakers to have a flurry of moves in the coming days as they see who gets released into the FA market that fir their needs ala Austin Rivers, Wes Mathews, and JaMychal Green and whom they can sign.
Would be funny if austin rivera goes to Sixers .. than doc would have his son and son in law curry
Guess he doubts himself on getting more had he opted out…