3 takeaways from Dallas Mavericks 2022 Fan Jam

JaVale McGee adds rebounding and rim protection

From the opening tip, McGee’s energy and ability to control the paint stood out. He pulled down an offensive rebound and got a putback to start the game, and the seven-footer was a presence inside throughout the Fan Jam scrimmage.

The Mavericks were lacking a rim protector during their run to the conference finals last season. They were outrebounded 811 to 657 over their 18 postseason games, and Dallas did not have a shot-blocker at the rim. McGee fills those holes, and supporters could immediately see that during Fan Jam.

The veteran big man is also developing chemistry with Luka Doncic. McGee caught a handful of lobs from number 77 over the last two days, and they could be one of the best pick and roll duos in the league. McGee is an elite roll man, and Mavs fans know how special Luka is with the ball in his hands. Expect coach Kidd to keep playing those two together to build their chemistry throughout training camp.

Dallas Mavericks Fan Jam was a blast on Saturday. Tim Hardaway Jr. proved he was healthy by finding his jumper in the second half, and rookie Jaden Hardy impressed too. Luka Doncic put on a show as always, and supporters should be excited about the team. This is just the beginning, so please stay tuned and enjoy the show as the season progresses.