Grading the Minnesota Timberwolves' offseason moves

Grading the Minnesota Timberwolves’ offseason moves

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - AUGUST 04: Ricky Rubio #11 of the Phoenix Suns dribbles downcourt against the LA Clippers at The Arena at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on August 04, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

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SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – JANUARY 18: Jaden McDaniels #0 of the Washington Huskies reacts in the second half against the Oregon Ducks during their game at Hec Edmundson Pavilion on January 18, 2020 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

28TH PICK – Jaden McDaniels

The Minnesota Timberwolves took an interesting forward in Jaden McDaniels with the 28th overall pick – someone who was originally a top-10 recruit heading into this past college basketball season.

Jaden McDaniels is an interesting project player. He probably should not get many (or any) minutes to start his career, as he’s a thin, offense-first forward, and just needs time to fill out his frame so that he is able to at least compete defensively.

Offensively, however, there is a lot to like. At 6-foot-9, he’s a player that can space the floor, and do it pretty well. He shot 34-percent from three during his year in Washington, on about four attempts per game.

That said, he has trouble scoring at the basket – and that’s concerning given his size and athletic ability in addition to him playing in one of the weaker power five conferences, as well. It’s disheartening to see someone with his skills score at only 40-percent from the field.

McDaniels needs to add a lot in order to become a consistent NBA player. But if he is able to be at least playable on defense and add to his inside scoring, he could be a starter, and you can’t ask for much more than that with a late-first round pick.

Grade: C

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