The Miami Heat could look to bring in a respected veteran to back up Bam Adebayo. JaVale McGee certainly fits that mold.
JaVale McGee was traded from the Cavaliers to the Nuggets midway through last year. However, he didn’t end up getting much playing time in Denver.
In the 13 games he played with the Nuggets he only averaged 13.5 minutes per game. He only played in four of their postseason games.
Despite not earning playing time, McGee has always been a very productive player. His two years with the Lakers were two of the best years of his career.
During the Lakers’ title year, he averaged 6.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks. He only played 16.6 minutes per game.
If given a similar role as Bam Adebayo’s backup, he could be super productive for the Miami Heat. He plays solid defense, is extremely athletic, and plays his role well.
Since the Nuggets didn’t play him much, he could likely be persuaded to leave fairly easily. He may be 33 years old, but he definitely has some quality years left in the NBA.
Though he was joked about early on in his career, McGee is now a super solid backup big man. He wouldn’t cost too much to bring in, so there’s really no downside.
The Miami Heat should certainly inquire about McGee this offseason. He’d be a great veteran to help shore up their center rotation.