As JaVale McGee sauntered toward the bench late in the third quarter Wednesday night, a capacity Oracle Arena crowd of 19,596 roared.
In that moment, with the Warriors well on their way to a 110-81 rout of Portland in Game 2 of the first round, yellow-clad fans were making sure a player long known for his bloopers knew he was appreciated. With Kevin Durant sidelined by a strained left calf, McGee had helped underscore that Golden State’s success hinges on more than its All-Stars.
The 7-footer needed only seven shots and 13 minutes to finish with 15 points, four blocks and five rebounds.