Jaden McDaniels' possible offensive growth is one of the more intriguing aspects of the Minnesota Timberwolves' upcoming season. The 6-foot-9 forward showed flashes of his upside in the playoffs, averaging 14.7 points, and he also posted a career high of 12.2 points.
Entering his age-25 season, another offensive leap could be in line for McDaniels. However, fans might not be aware of what an offensive jump could result in for McDaniels, who is already one of the league's best defenders.
On a recent episode of The Zach Lowe Show, Lowe and Bill Simmons projected Team USA's roster for the 2028 Olympics. While McDaniels didn't make this list, both Lowe and Simmons said they considered him, especially if he improves as a shooter.
This might sound far-fetched at first, but having guys who are comfortable sacrificing some minutes and not playing a glorified role on an Olympic team is logical. Derrick White and Jrue Holiday are two perfect examples of this on last year's team.
Throughout this segment, both Lowe and Simmons wisely noted the value of having players like McDaniels on the Olympic team. A prime example of this is how Simmons had Cason Wallace on his team. If McDaniels takes a leap offensively and the Wolves continue their success, he very well could earn a spot on the Olympic team.
McDaniels' growth as a shooter will be key to his Olympic chances
As mentioned earlier, it's crucial to have players who are comfortable with a lesser role, and that's something that McDaniels would surely be willing to do. Furthermore, defense is a crucial skill in Olympic play, and McDaniels is one of the NBA's most impactful defenders. McDaniels can shut down perimeter players while having the size to guard wings and bigs. He also wreaks havoc off the ball. Having an on-ball stopper with impressive versatility is perfect for Olympic play.
Shooting will be a swing factor for McDaniels' offensive growth and Olympic chances. The Washington product has only shot 34.8 percent from beyond the arc for his career and 33 percent last year. However, he has shown flashes of a consistent jumper, shooting 42 percent from 3-point land for his playoff career, and netted 39.8 3-point shots in the 2022-23 season.
For McDaniels to reach another level as a scorer, it will be paired with growth in at least one area: shooting or self-creation. Specifically regarding his Olympic chances, shooting will be the more vital skill since he would play a spot-up role on offense.
Nevertheless, there's certainly a scenario where McDaniels develops as a shooter and earns an Olympic spot. He'll be in his true prime, at 27, during the Olympics. With Anthony Edwards likely being the face of Team USA in 2028, keeping his teammate around could be advantageous. If McDaniels not only reaches another level on offense but the Wolves end up winning a title, his impact will be clear, and it could result in him getting a spot on the 2028 Olympic team.