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Earlier today, the Sixers agreed to a deal with the Denver Nuggets. Philadelphia acquired JaVale McGee, a first-round pick and the rights to Chu Chu Maduabum from the Denver in exchange for the rights to Cenk Akyol.
While some fans might have thought the Sixers would buy-out McGee's contract, that doesn't seem to be the case. League sources have told Yahoo! Sports that neither the Sixers or McGee's agent, B.J. Armstrong have even thought of the idea.
The Philadelphia 76ers and center JaVale McGee have no plans to discuss a contract buyout, clearing the way for McGee to play for the team this season, league sources told Yahoo Sports.
Neither the Sixers, nor McGee's agent, B.J. Armstrong of Wasserman Media Group, have broached the idea, sources said.
How McGee will work in Brett Brown's rotation is undetermined at this time. The Sixers have Nerlens Noel and Henry Sims to work with currently. Occasionally Jerami Grant will play the four spot as well. If McGee can defend well and rebound, he may add nice depth to the young, inexperienced Sixers front court.
The Sixers didn't really have to give up anything for this deal. Rather, it looks like they will absorb McGee's salary as the cost of that Thunder first-round pick. JaVale earns $11.25 million this year and $12 million next season.
McGee has struggled with injury issues over the last two seasons. In 17 games off the bench for the Nuggets this season, the 27-year-old seven-footer is averaging 5.2 points and 2.8 rebounds. Before he had issues with injury, McGee averaged 11.3 points and 7.8 rebounds per game during the 2011-12 season with the Wizards and Nuggets.
The new-look Sixers return to action tomorrow night at home against the Pacers at 7pm.
