Atlanta Hawks: 3 veteran centers to fill the last need on the roster

Hawks free agent big option No. 1: Veteran JaVale McGee has been mentioned as an option

The Washington Wizards made JaVale McGee the 18th overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft after two years at Nevada. He entered the league with expectations he would be a dynamic, shot-blocking paint defender for years to come. This was during what can be considered the last great stretch for the big men in the NBA.

It didn’t work out quite as planned with McGee lasting just three and a half seasons in Washington and has proceeded to bounce around the league. He’s played for seven teams and split last season between the Cavaliers and Nuggets.

Don’t be fooled, though. In spurts, McGee is one of the more impactful shot blockers in the NBA.

And he’s become a more effective rebounder as he’s matured. It was on full display as he helped the Los Angeles Lakers win their 17th championship last season, his third after he won two with the Warriors.

Now, McGee didn’t see any time in the NBA Finals against the Miami Heat and saw his playing time dwindle as the playoffs wore on. But L.A. was deep at the position and matchups dictate a lot in the postseason. McGee was still a highly-valued member of the roster both on the court and as a teammate in the locker room.

And since Okongwu is expected back by the playoffs, McGee’s role will be reduced regardless

Still,  the experience of having “been there before” is something else he can bring to the Hawks. And we’ve seen videos of him bonding with Team USA teammates in Tokyo.

Atlanta is looking for a temporary part-time player and most aren’t self-aware enough to accept such a limited role. But McGee has been through all of the ups and downs in his career, this wouldn’t be anything new for him.