C's Set to Sign McGee

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The Celtics (24-35) are currently two-games behind a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. It looks like they might be making a run towards the postseason if they are looking to add more front court help.

ESPN's Jeff Goodman first reported that the C's are set to sign forward/center; JaVale McGee through next season.

Danny Ainge, who made his weekly appearance on a Boston Sports radio station did not deny they are bringing the veteran in.

"JaVale is a long, athletic guy, and we don't have that type of player -- an above-the-rim offensive and defensive player," Ainge said. "He's been paid a lot of money in our league, had some injuries, hasn't lived up to his potential yet, and we're hoping that he can under [Celtics coach Brad Stevens'] tutelage.

"I think he's in a good place, emotionally and mentally, and he really wants to get his career on the right path." [ESPN]

McGee, who is still only 27-years-old was waived this past Sunday by the Philadelphia 76ers after he was acquired from the Denver Nuggets at the NBA's trading deadline.

The 7-footer was drafted 18th overall in the 2008 draft, and has played in Washington, Denver and Philly. He has been plagued with an injury this season (4.6 points, 2.7 rebounds in 23 games), but has career averages of 8.4 points (54-percent shooting), 5.5 rebounds and 1.8 blocks per game.

Philadelphia agreed to just release McGee without a buyout and pay the remaining $3 million left (of his $11.25 million) this season, and roughly 12 million that he's owed next season.

Once Ainge and McGee make the deal official, the Celtics will finally have a rim protector they desperately been searching for and it won't break the bank either. This a low risk, high-reward type of signing that will most definitely strengthen Brad Stevens' bench going forward.

The Heat, Mavericks and Warriors were also rumored to be interested in McGee's services.

We will keep you posted with any updates.



UPDATE: CONTRACT TALKS BETWEEN MCGEE & CELTICS FALL THROUGH


According to Yahoo Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski the Celtics and McGee couldn't come to an agreement on next year's contract option. A league source says that the Celtics wanted a team option, McGee wanted a player option.


Joel Pavón
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