Jaden McDaniels Sends Clear Message on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Foul Calls

Gilgeous-Alexander has been a thorn in every perimeter defender's side over the past few years. He drives into the paint more than any other player in the league, which leaves him vulnerable to fouls. 

Most of the time, he draws fouls by forcing the opponents to stop him. They make contact, so that gets called often, but Gilgeous-Alexander is also an intelligent player who knows how to force opponents to foul him. That happened with McDaniels in Game 1, but he is ready to play better in Game 2.

McDaniels Is Focused On Playing Clean Defense

Since he will be the primary matchup against the MVP, McDaniels has to be more locked in. He must play better defense without fouling because he played suffocating defense in the first half.

Gilgeous-Alexander shot 2-of-13 from the field in the first half, with McDaniels as the primary defender. It is a good idea to make him the matchup again because he knows how to stay in front of SGA and avoid fouling too much.

"We just gotta stop fouling. We’re being a little bit too physical. We gotta switch our game plan of how the refs are calling the game," McDaniels said ahead of Game 2. "Just expect things to happen. He’s gonna get calls and the refs aren’t always gonna be on our side."

The Timberwolves Will Be Better Prepared For The Fouls

Coach Chris Finch already spoke about the Timberwolves getting frustrated about the momentum-breaking foul calls. They are playing good defense, but they must avoid going too physical, especially against Gilgeous-Alexander.

Thankfully, the Timberwolves can be confident about their chances in Game 2 after their superb performances in the second round against the Golden State Warriors.

It will be another tough night for both teams, but the Timberwolves' backs are against the wall. They thrive in this situation, so the Thunder should be ready for a motivated Timberwolves team.