Timberwolves fans should not worry about Jaden McDaniels’ extension

As the Minnesota Timberwolves prepare for their preseason opener in Abu Dhabi against the Mavericks, one of the biggest topics being discussed among fans is the potential contract extension for Jaden McDaniels. The deadline for the Wolves’ young star to sign an extension is October 23.

Many Timberwolves fans are hoping a deal gets done sooner rather than later. After all, McDaniels is one of the team’s cornerstones and is shaping up to be the perfect co-star next to Anthony Edwards with his superior two-way abilities.

But even as the deadline looms, fans in Minnesota should not be concerned. Even if an agreement is not reached by October 23, there is still a very slim chance McDaniels leaves Minnesota.

Timberwolves fans do not need to worry about losing Jaden McDaniels

If Jaden McDaniels does not sign a new deal by the third week of October, he will officially become a restricted free agent. This will allow him to entertain contract offers from any team in the association looking to sign him.

The one stipulation is that since McDaniels is a restricted free agent, the Timberwolves will have the ability to match any contract offer he receives. So even if another team offers him an incredibly lucrative deal, Minnesota would likely match the contract and be able to retain McDaniels.

We just saw Devin Vassell of the San Antonio Spurs get paid a hefty five-year, $146 million extension. It is likely that Jaden McDaniels’ extension with the Wolves will be a similar size or possibly even larger.

It is possible that Minnesota is using this opportunity to gauge the market for McDaniels’ services. If other teams are not offering him as much as expected, they may be able to re-sign him for a discounted price. But if he is getting the offers he is expected to get, the Timberwolves should be fully prepared to write the check.