Jaden McDaniels is making waves in the NBA this season, fully delivering on the high expectations that Timberwolves fans have harbored over the past few years. His recent performance against the Los Angeles Clippers stands as one of the finest of his young career, showcasing his offensive prowess and versatility on the court.
On Saturday night, McDaniels scored an impressive 27 points, going an efficient 10 of 13 from the field. He demonstrated his shooting abilities by successfully making all three of his attempts from beyond the arc, alongside four two-point baskets from outside the restricted area. Notably, he also displayed his ability to finish around the rim with three successful attempts. His early third-quarter surge, which included a personal 9-0 run, breathed life into a Timberwolves offense that was struggling to gain momentum. McDaniels not only excelled offensively but also contributed defensively with two steals and a block.
This performance marked only the seventh instance in McDaniels’ career where he scored 27 or more points, all of which have occurred within the 2025 calendar year. This includes a standout 30-point performance against the Lakers earlier this season that tied his career-high. Remarkably, he achieved these 27 points with just 13 shot attempts—his lowest in such a high-scoring game.
As the Timberwolves look toward the future, McDaniels’ offensive growth is pivotal for the team’s potential in 2026 and beyond. Having a dynamic third option like McDaniels to supplement Anthony Edwards, especially during quieter games for the star, is a significant advantage for head coach Chris Finch and the Timberwolves organization. At just 25 years old, McDaniels is still developing and likely has yet to reach the peak of his athletic abilities.
Through the first 22 games of the season, McDaniels has emerged as the quintessential “3 and D” player. His perimeter defense has been lauded, leading to a selection to the second team All-Defense in the 2023-24 season. Currently, he is averaging 16 points per game with an impressive shooting percentage: 53.5% from the field, 48.6% from three-point range, and 86% from the free-throw line.
While some regression from his hot shooting is expected, McDaniels’ shot mechanics appear as solid as ever. His combination of length and a soft touch positions him as a genuine three-level scoring threat when he has the ball.
Given his continual improvement and essential role within the team, McDaniels has become an untouchable asset in trade discussions. His pairing with Edwards promises a bright future for the Timberwolves, as they harness the talents of both players to build a competitive roster for years to come.