Jaden McDaniels has surfaced in trade speculation tied to the Timberwolves’ interest in Giannis Antetokounmpo, but his performance in Thursday night’s win over the Thunder underscored his importance to Minnesota beyond any rumors, writes Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic.
Now in his sixth season, McDaniels is producing at the best level of his career. He is posting career highs with 14.9 points and 2.9 assists per game, while also shooting a personal-best 44.5% from three-point range.
His efficiency has extended to the free-throw line as well, where he’s averaging 2.5 attempts per game and converting 84.9%.
Durability has also been a strength, as he has missed only two games this season after appearing in all 82 last year. Outside of a COVID-shortened season, he has rarely missed extended time.
Beyond the numbers, McDaniels has earned unwavering support from his teammates.
“He’s my favorite player in the league,” Anthony Edwards said. “I love everything about Jaden, everything that he does on the court, defensively, offensively, for us as a team, on the bench, he’s always cheering his teammates on no matter how the game goes for him.”
Edwards and head coach Chris Finch have both highlighted McDaniels’ work ethic and professional mindset, noting how seriously he approaches improving every aspect of his game.
“He’s an incredible worker,” Finch said. “He’s like a machine every day.”
Krawczynski notes that any potential Antetokounmpo trade involving Minnesota would almost certainly require McDaniels to be included, either directly to Milwaukee or rerouted to a third team.
However, if no blockbuster deal materializes, McDaniels has emerged as exactly the kind of cornerstone contributor the Timberwolves need at this stage of their growth.
Northwest Notes: McDaniels, Thunder, Jazz, Conley https://t.co/TpXkD5N3kF pic.twitter.com/1jghNPBHU0
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