It’s fair to have questions about the Minnesota Timberwolves’ ability to make another deep playoff run. Nevertheless, one thing that is Jaden McDaniels is an undeniable advantage and a change from previous seasons. Don’t get me wrong, McDaniels has always been a great role player, but he has been so much more than that this season.
All things considered, McDaniels’ offensive growth could make a difference in the Wolves’ ability to make another deep playoff run — and possibly get over the championship hump.
On the season, McDaniels is averaging 15 points, 4.3 rebounds and 2.9 assists on 51.9/45.4/84.4 shooting splits. McDaniels’ growth as a 3-point shooter, shot maker and playmaker gives the Wolves an element they have been missing for years. This, combined with his elite defense, makes him and the Wolves a playoff nightmare.
McDaniels’ growth gives the Wolves an element they have lacked in the past
In recent years, McDaniels has been much more inconsistent offensively, especially as a shooter. Notably, entering the season, McDaniels was a 34.8 percent three-point shooter. As such, 45.4 percent from beyond the arc is a significant jump. Before this year, teams could cut McDaniels and send the house to Anthony Edwards. If teams adopt this strategy now, McDaniels will make them pay for it.
McDaniels is also a great finisher, shooting 69.8 at the rim. But wait, it gets better: McDaniels is hitting 48.5 percent of his shots from mid-range, making him a true three-level scorer. Whether initiating offense for himself or others, McDaniels’ comfort level with the ball has really stood out to me this season. With his well-rounded offensive skillset, combined with his elite size (6-foot-4) and defense, McDaniels is one of the most complete complementary stars in the league.
By all accounts, McDaniels’ offensive growth gives the Wolves something they’ve lacked in the past: a consistent third option. Considering the Wolves have already made it to two straight conference finals, McDaniels’ growth should put other teams on notice.
Outside of the Oklahoma City Thunder (they’re a different monster), I think the Wolves have the most reliable and all-around impactful third option in the West.
Stephon Castle is fantastic, but he’s still a second-year guard with a shaky jump shot. The same goes for Amen Thompson, but he is in his third year. Aaron Gordon’s ongoing hamstring injuries are a valid concern, despite him being comparable to McDaniels in terms of overall excellence. Between Austin Reaves or, honestly, LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers have a more talented third option than the Wolves at this point. However, neither player provides value on the defensive side of the ball.
McDaniels, on the other hand, can take opponents’ stars out of matches while providing reliable three-level scoring and tertiary play. That’s the definition of a matchup nightmare, and when it comes time for the playoffs, McDaniels could help tilt any series in the Wolves’ favor.
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