Jaden McDaniels

Jaden McDaniels (born September 29, 2000) is an American professional basketball player for the Minnesota Timberwolves of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Standing 6 feet 9 inches (2.06 m) with a massive wingspan, McDaniels has established himself as one of the premier “lockdown” wing defenders in the NBA.

An NBA All-Defensive Second Team selection in 2024, McDaniels is a vital component of Minnesota’s defensive identity. Following a significant contract extension in 2023, he has continued to evolve into a versatile two-way threat as the Timberwolves pursue title contention.

 

Early Life 

High School 

McDaniels was born in Federal Way, Washington, into a family with deep basketball roots. His father, Will McDaniels, played college basketball, and his older brother, Jalen McDaniels, also reached the NBA. He is also a cousin of former NBA star Juwan Howard.

At Federal Way High School, McDaniels became a national standout. As a senior, he averaged 23.3 points and 10 rebounds, earning Washington Gatorade Player of the Year honors and a selection as a McDonald’s All-American. By graduation, he was a consensus five-star recruit and ranked among the top 10 players in his class.

College Career

He played one collegiate season at the University of Washington (2019–20), where he averaged 13.0 points and 5.8 rebounds. Despite the Huskies’ struggles, McDaniels’ defensive versatility and offensive upside solidified his status as a first-round NBA prospect.

NBA Career 

Minnesota Timberwolves (2020–Present)

McDaniels was selected 28th overall in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers but was acquired by Minnesota via trade. He quickly exceeded expectations, moving into the starting lineup due to his ability to guard multiple positions.

In October 2023, he signed a five-year, $131 million extension with the Timberwolves. The 2024–25 season saw him take a major offensive leap, scoring a career-high 30 points against Portland on February 8, 2025, and matching that total in the first round of the playoffs against the Lakers. He finished the season averaging 12.2 points and 5.7 rebounds while playing all 82 games.

2025–2026 Season

McDaniels is having his most productive season to date. Through 53 games, he is averaging a career-high 14.9 points while shooting an elite 45.0% from three-point range.

Early in February, he put up a season-high 29 points against the Memphis Grizzlies.

 

Career Highlights & Awards

• NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2024)
• McDonald’s All-American (2019)
• Washington Gatorade Player of the Year (2019)
• Playoff Career High: 30 points (April 25, 2025 vs. LAL)

Personal Life

McDaniels is known for his quiet, focused demeanor. He maintains a close relationship with his brother, Jalen, though the two have frequently competed against each other at the NBA level. Outside of basketball, he is involved in community programs in his hometown of Federal Way and the Twin Cities.