Jaden McDaniels is coming off a career season, and as he turns 25 later this month, he could be poised for another leap. The Minnesota Timberwolves' belief in McDaniels couldn't be clearer after this offseason. This might not jump out when looking at the Wolves' offseason, but it's absolutely fair to say.
The Wolves lost Nickeil Alexander-Walker to the Atlanta Hawks this summer. Re-signing NAW wasn't possible without going into the second apron. However, the Wolves opted not to sign a replacement for Alexander-Walker. Johnny Juzang, who is on a training camp deal, is the only signing the Wolves have made to date in the offseason.
Many people have discussed how this is about giving their young players bigger roles, which is true. But it also signals confidence in McDaniels. Earlier this offseason, the Wolves were interested in Kevin Durant. While Durant reportedly didn't want to end up in Minnesota, it's worth noting that they didn't pursue another big trade, reflecting a clear belief in McDaniels.
McDaniels is a key part of the Wolves' core, and he's only getting better
Over the past few years, McDaniels has been the quintessential glue guy for the Wolves. He is one of the NBA's best on-ball stoppers, capable of shutting down multiple positions while wreaking havoc off the ball. On offense, McDaniels excels as a finisher and is coming off a season in which he averaged a career-high 12.2 points. However, McDaniels can reach another level as he displayed in the playoffs, averaging 14.7 points.
If McDaniels can provide this level of offensive production while adding some more consistent playmaking and shooting, he could be the Wolves' clear third option. The Wolves opting not to sign another wing after losing NAW reflects that they believe McDaniels can take on even more defensive responsibilities and further improve on offense.
After striking out on Durant, the Wolves could have pursued another trade. While a player of Durant's caliber wasn't available, they could have looked into another complementary star next to Anthony Edwards. Alternatively, they could have looked to trade for a backup wing to fill the NAW void.
The Wolves also passed up on drafting another wing, opting to select big men in both rounds. Yes, this shows a belief in Terrence Shannon Jr. and Jaylen Clark, but it also highlights their confidence in McDaniels.
Ultimately, by all accounts, the Wolves organization has shown that they believe McDaniels can handle increased responsibilities on both ends of the floor. Entering his true prime, don't be surprised if McDaniels has a breakout season, which is something the Wolves seem to be banking on.