Heading into the season, Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels was expected to reach another level offensively. He showed this upside in the playoffs, averaging 14.7 points. Now, though McDaniels is averaging 17.5 points, a 5.3 ppg increase from his previous career high.
McDaniels has been more aggressive as a shot creator, and Chris Finch has made it a point of emphasis to get him more involved in the offense. However, what's truly shocked me and Timberwolves fans has been McDaniels' growth as a 3-point shooter.
Despite only being a career 34.8 percent 3-point shooter before this season, including a 33 percent 3-point shooter last year, a leap as a shooter always seemed likely. Notably, McDaniels is a 42 percent 3-point shooter in the playoffs. McDaniels, leading the league in 3-point percentage, shooting a staggering 52.1 percent, wasn't on anyone's radar, though.
Now up to 52%, Jaden McDaniels currently leads the league in 3P%
— Dane Moore (@DaneMooreNBA) November 18, 2025
McDaniels' growth changes everything for the Timberwolves
Listen, I'm not foolish. I understand that it's unlikely for McDaniels to maintain these shooting numbers. Last year, Seth Curry (not Steph) led the league shooting 45.6 percent from beyond the arc; the year before, Grayson Allen led the league, netting 46.1 percent of his 3s. The point is, 52.1 percent would be an anomaly.
However, I don't see a reason why McDaniels can't shoot well above 40 percent. Undoubtedly, his growth as a shooter and overall creator changes everything for the Wolves. McDaniels being able to consistently knock down 3s gives Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle a nice safety net when they drive.
This paired with his overall growth as a creator, gives the Wolves' offense another element. As the Wolves try to make a finals run, having a consistent third option is a true game-changer. McDaniels' offensive improvements are a big reason why the Wolves have the fifth-ranked offense, which is the highest in the Edwards era.
It's always been clear that when McDaniels is aggressive and efficient, the Wolves are at their best. Last season, Minnesota was 24-9 when McDaniels shot 40 percent or higher from 3-point range. This season, the Wolves are 7-2 when McDaniels has shot 40 percent or higher from 3-point range.
With McDaniels shooting efficiently and being more aggressive as a scorer, the Wolves are a more difficult playoff matchup. Whether he shoots at a league-leading level or simply above 40 percent, McDaniels' growth can help the Wolves reach another level.
McDaniels' leading the NBA in 3-point percentage is an awesome stat. Regardless, the bigger picture is that McDaniels' growth as a shooter and all-around offensive player changes the Wolves' outlook this season.