Timberwolves starter to be sidelined at least two weeks

The Timberwolves will be without one of their starters for at least the remainder of the month.

Forward Jaden McDaniels, who sprained his right ankle during the first quarter in Monday’s 117-100 victory over the Knicks, is expected to miss 2-3 weeks, according to a team press release.

McDaniels underwent an MRI on Tuesday at the Mayo Clinic which confirmed a Grade 1 right lateral ankle sprain. His will be re-evaluated in one week.

While McDaniels isn’t asked for much offensively — he averages 7.2 shots per game — he’s an essential part of their defense. In 11 starts this season, he’s averaging 9.5 points, 2.2 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 23.6 minutes per game. Last season, McDaniels started 79 games, averaging 12.1 points, 3.9 rebounds and 1.9 assists in 30.6 minutes.

Minnesota made a major commitment to McDaniels this summer, handing him a five-year extension worth up to $136M.