'It's a little different': Mavericks' JaVale McGee on facing former team Suns in season opener
Dana Scott
Dallas Mavericks big JaVale McGee is back in Phoenix for the first time since his former team Suns lost to them at home by 33 points in the Western Conference semifinals Game 7 last postseason.
The 15-year veteran, who’s played on nine NBA teams, spoke during the Mavericks' Wednesday media availability about what he anticipates playing against the Suns in their season opener later that day, playing with All-Star Luka Doncic, and more.
Read more: Suns looking to avenge Game 7 flop against Mavericks in opener
Joining Mavericks for the second time in his career: “I’m excited starting a new season, starting a new journey with the team I’ve been on before but as a new player, as a new person, and as a starter also. So it’s a lot of responsibility that I’m ready to take up on.”
Facing Suns after joining Mavericks compared to playing against other former teams: “It sort of feels different just because of the way (Suns) lost my last game in Phoenix to the team I’m on now. It’s a little different for sure.
Playing with Luka Doncic through preseason: “It’s real cool. Obviously, he’s a phenomenal player, but the way he finds his teammates is truly amazing. Even at the 3, even at the lob, the stuff he can see, his peripheral vision is crazy.
Comparing Chris Paul and Luka Doncic initiating offense: “It’s definitely a difference, but they’re both obviously great passers. But Luka’s a little bit younger and he has a little bit more upside, as he should. He’s only in his fifth year. But I mean it’s amazing playing with two different players who are All-Stars, who are perennial All-Stars, who are amazing players, who are brains of the game and the way they see the floor is amazing. So being a part of it is pretty cool.
Noticing former Rockets' top-scoring big Christian Wood adjust to Mavericks winning culture: “He’s just trying to adapt to that winning mindset. I see him trying to adjust from teams that didn’t have winning in the books. It was just get buckets and call it a day. Now he’s trying to decipher how do I go and get buckets and still play winning basketball, and I can see the progress for sure.
Comparing Mavericks coach Jason Kidd and Suns coach Monty Williams: “It’s the second time I’ve had Jay Kidd as a coach, not a head coach but a coach on the 2020 Lakers when we won a championship. So a little bit of familiarity, but I’m really excited and he’s a great coach and his demeanor is tiered to none.
Joining Mavericks as a starter after being Suns backup center: “It feels real good. Last time I was starting on a team, we won the NBA championship. So I hope I don’t have to change that anytime soon.
Read more: Suns' Bridges expects Mavericks to have different look
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