What to expect from SF Jaden McDaniels next season?

The Minnesota Timberwolves came into the 2022-23 NBA season with lofty aspirations, following the much-criticized off-season trade with the Utah Jazz for All-Star center Rudy Gobert. The Timberwolves recently endured their season coming to a close, despite a well-fought game five against center Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets which saw the eighth-seeded Minnesota Timberwolves fall in Round 1 of the 2023 NBA Playoffs to the top-seeded Nuggets, despite a Game 5 that was decided by just three points.

One key player who was not able to grace the hardwood during this series was the two-way standout, Timberwolves small forward Jaden McDaniels. McDaniels suffered a fractured hand when punching a wall on his way to the locker room during a tense final regular season game against the New Orleans Pelicans.

On the bright side

One of the few bright spots during this turbulent, emotion-filled campaign was the development of McDaniels as a legitimate offensive threat.

McDaniels was one of the best value selections in the 2020 draft, falling down to pick 28 in the first round. The impact of the young wing has largely been displayed through his defensive acumen, but where Seatbelt, nicknamed for his lockdown ability, showed significant growth this year was as a scorer.

Following the All-Star break, McDaniels averaged 13.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.4 assists as per StatMuse. Arguably the biggest sign of improvement was his efficiency during this stretch, as he was able to shoot 52.1 percent from the field, as well as 42.7 percent from beyond the arc on an increased 3.9 attempts.

Confidence is key

McDaniels went on record in late March when speaking with NBA insider Shams Charania, where they discussed his increased role as a scorer for the Wolves.

"“The playoffs last year was probably like an eye opener for me, just being able to go out there freely and confidently. Just being aggressive early in the games, I feel like that helps me out a lot.”"

Following the aforementioned 2022 playoffs, McDaniels increased his points per game total from 9.2 to 12.1. From an eye-test standpoint, the former Husky showed improvements in two major areas; being able to refine his handle and finishing ability around the rim.

In a now offensive-dominated league players are required to have multiple go-to moves to thrive as an NBA player.

Jaden has shown a proclivity for getting to the bucket, whether that’s following a spin move, crossover, or beating the defense as a cutter. He’s also flashed the ability to shoot the midrange, and has continuously developed as a spot-up shooter from three.

Looking ahead

Tim Connelly and the front office have their work cut out for them this offseason, but one guarantee is that McDaniels is a key piece of the core they will be looking to build around.

When considering the tools he’s displayed as well as his expanding role in the offense, it’s not too far-fetched to believe McDaniels has the ability to make a push at the 2023-24 NBA Most Improved Player Award.