Minnesota Timberwolves wing Jaylen Clark has quickly become a fan favorite and understandably so. After Saturday's win over the LA Clippers, the Wolves are now 12-0 when Clark plays 14 or more minutes. He has reached this threshold in the last three games. During the Wolves' three-game losing streak, Clark didn't play more than 10 minutes once.
It seems like Clark is on the brink of getting a more consistent role. This stat isn't some coincidence; Clark impacts winning at a high level, especially defensively. For a team that has lacked defense in the non-Rudy minutes, having an energy spark off the bench is essential. The Wolves, as a team, have lacked bench production, and it truly looks like Clark is the second most impactful bench player.
Jaylen Clark is giving the Timberwolves exactly what they need
I can't express how impactful Clark's defense is. He has a relentless motor and has the rare ability to mirror players. Clark's blend of strength and IQ makes him a matchup nightmare for opposing players. The UCLA product is truly one of the best perimeter defenders in the league. While at UCLA, Clark won DPOY in 2023.
Opponents shot just 39.8 percent when guarded by Clark, or more accurately, when they're in Clark County Jail. He is one of just 11 players to hold opponents to below 40 percent shooting while defending at least five shots per game.
Overall, Clark has a minus-6.1 on/off defensive difference, which ranks in the 81st percentile per Cleaning the Glass. Only Gobert has a more significant on/off swing. Speaking of Gobert, one of the Wolves' biggest problems has been maintaining a competent defense with him. When Gobert sits, the Wolves have a 125.3 defensive rating. But when Clark is on the floor without Gobert, they have a 118.8 DRTG.
Clark also takes pressure off of Jaden McDaniels as a point of attack defender. That duo has a 108.2 DRTG.
At times this year, the Wolves have looked lethargic. With Clark on the floor, though, the Wolves have an extra sense of energy. Clark has a relentless motor, and he's willing to sacrifice himself to make winning plays. Notably, he ranks in the 92nd percentile for deflections per 100 possessions and the 89th percentile via Databallr.
Jaylen Clark hustle play + driving layup + foul pic.twitter.com/a2GsfIGWng
— Timberwolves Clips (@WolvesClips) December 7, 2025
Having an impactful bench player espeically one who can defend, is a game changer for the Wolves.
Clark's offense has been impressive recently, and it changes everything
Offensively, Clark still has some catching up to do. He is averaging 4.9 points with a 52.5 effective field goal percentage. Clark isn't a great playmaker or ball-handler either. However, his high basketball IQ allows him to make a positive impact. Clark is a fantastic cutter and always makes the extra pass.
Over the last four games, Clark is averaging 8.5 points while averaging 42.9 percent from beyond the arc. If he can consistently hit open 3s and score at a decent rate, Chris Finch will have no choice but to play him big minutes.
Clark was often overlooked when discussing the Wolves' young trio, which also includes Terrence Shannon Jr. and Rob Dillingham. Nevertheless, there's no doubt that Clark has been the most impressive of this bunch and that he is quickly separating himself.
Ultimately, the Wolves look like they're back on track after a rough patch, and Clark is a big part of their recent success. As the season goes on, expect Clark to remain a key part of the Wolves' success.