JaVALE McGEE MOVED TO CLEVELAND
The Cleveland Cavaliers acquired center JaVale McGee and a second-round draft pick in 2026 from the Los Angeles Lakers for forward/guard Alfonzo McKinnie and center/forward Jordan Bell.
What does it give the Cleveland Cavaliers
In McGee, the Cavaliers get a quality backup center for starter Andre Drummond. McGee essentially replaces Tristan Thompson (free agent) on Cleveland. It is a perfect replacement, as McGee is a strong defender with championship pedigree (much like Thompson).
What does it give the Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers sent their starting center and a second-rounder in '26 to the Cavaliers as a cost-cutting move. They may or may not keep McKinnie and Bell, but moving McGee was necessary in order for Los Angeles to free up enough money to sign center Marc Gasol.
Fantasy impact
McGee's fantasy value figures to plummet playing behind Drummond in Cleveland. He is not a recommendable fantasy draft option at this point. Neither are McKinnie and Bell.
