Lakers center JaVale McGee picks up 2020-21 player option

Lakers center JaVale McGee will opt in to the final year of his contract, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic, who reports (via Twitter) that the big man is exercising his $4.2M player option.

McGee, who will turn 33 in January, was the Lakers’ starting center during the 2019-20 regular season, averaging 6.6 PPG, 5.7 RPG and 1.4 BPG in 68 contests (16.6 MPG).

McGee was one of several Lakers who had an option decision, and he was expected to take the guaranteed money rather than test the free agent waters. Thus, it won’t significantly alter the team’s cap outlook. With Anthony Davis’ $32.7M cap hold plus the other options decisions pending, the team will be over the cap unless Davis pulls a shocker and signs elsewhere.

McGee has found a home in L.A. over the last two seasons, establishing himself as a starter who plays limited but valuable minutes. He’s likely to fill the same role next season.