Dallas Mavericks officially sign JaVale McGee: What’s next?

The Dallas Mavericks wasted little time in agreeing to a deal with JaVale McGee for a portion of their taxpayer mid-level exception. The 34-year-old big man helps solve the team’s rebounding and rim protection issues, but it was important to leave a piece of their exception open.

Rookie second-round pick Jaden Hardy signed a three-year deal because the Mavs used part of their mid-level exception. Taxpaying teams are not allowed to give second-round rookies a fourth year, and his contract allows Dallas to make him a restricted free agent. That piece is key as it is part of the reason the Mavericks lost Jalen Brunson in free agency this summer.

The NBA lifted the moratorium on July 6, and the Mavs have finally made JaVale McGee’s contract official. They do not release contract figures, but the seven-footer got a three-year deal that features a player option in 2024.

Dallas Mavericks officially sign JaVale McGee: What’s next

The Christian Wood trade went through on draft night, and now the Mavs officially signed JaVale McGee to bolster their frontcourt. Dallas was dominated on the boards in the postseason, but the additions of Wood and McGee should change that. Head coach Jason Kidd has already named McGee as the team's starting center, but do not expect him to play more than 25 minutes per game.

The Mavs are currently in Las Vegas for summer league. They have a talented squad in the event that is led by Jaden Hardy. They still have one open roster spot, but they are waiting for other transaction dominos to fall before using it. Expect Dallas to sign a defensive-minded player to a veteran minimum deal.

Fans are still reeling from Jalen Brunson’s departure, and the Mavericks need another ball-handler heading into the 2022-2023 season. Can they trade for one this offseason?

There is still plenty to watch this summer, so please stay tuned to The Smoking Cuban for all the latest rumors, news, and analysis on the Dallas Mavericks.