McGee has transformed from the clumsy clown from Washington to a player that is thriving under George Karl’s run and gun system. Although, he had a weak showing in Game 1, McGee is easily the breakout player in the playoffs. During Game 5, he racked up 21 points on 9-for-12 shooting and snagged 15 rebounds as well.
The thing Denver has that is urging McGee to grow in his production is a competitive bench. Under Coach Karl, one has to play well to retain minutes and that coaxed JaVale to perform well. After his Game 5 performance, his production even impressed Kobe Bryant:
“He’s really improved his game. He seems to be coming into his own in this playoff series and showing a lot of versatility and skill around the basket. Defensively as well, he’s changing shots. He’s blossoming this series.”
Everyone has seen JaVale’s lowlights on Deadspin, Youtube and any other media platform, but it seems that JaVale is doing well in a year in which he will garner the money in the off-season.
At the same time, he has tugged on the heartstrings of Denver Nuggets fans, I being one of them. His mother, Pam McGee, interacts with the fans at the Pepsi Center is a welcomed sight for many ride-or-die fans who have been accustomed to NBA All-Stars and their families who have not one care for the fans. This is a welcomed change for many and this is why Denver is smitten for the goofy, freakishly athletic JaVale.
Denver is McGeeked!!
video courtesy of Cody Roark
