We Got Jaden McDaniels: Anthony Edwards Continues To Support His Running Mate

McDaniels is averaging 19.8 points and 7.3 rebounds per game against the Lakers. It has been an impressive run for Jaden, especially since he is better known as a defensive stopper. 

He always had the physical tools to be a more well-rounded player, and he is finally realizing his potential against the Lakers. Edwards has always reminded people that McDaniels is a promising player, and the 6'9" forward is proving his teammate right.

Edwards Is Always Backing McDaniels' Potential

Even though they are playing against a talented team like the Lakers, McDaniels has stood out. Jaden has become an offensive force in this series because he knows he can get past his matchups with his quickness and athleticism.

Finishing at the rim has become easier because the Lakers do not have any rim protectors in the paint. It is a challenging dynamic for Los Angeles head coach JJ Redick because he has limited options at the center position. He has tried to run Jaxson Hayes, but he is getting bullied out there. 

"Jaden is incredible. People kind of made fun of me like three years ago for my comments about Jaden, but look at him, he's been playing phenomenal," Edwards said about McDaniels' play in the Playoffs. "Every game all year. Ups and downs, no matter what he stays with us. Very coachable."

By unlocking his potential in these Playoffs, this could also bode well in the long run. Ant is the team's superstar, but he needs players he knows he can trust. Having Jaden as his running mate is a big deal because they have known each other throughout their years playing together since 2020.

The Timberwolves Need To Keep Trusting McDaniels

With how he is playing in this series against the Lakers, it is time for the Timberwolves to trust McDaniels for the long-term future. He has become one of the team's best players, and Jaden is not only doing it on offense. The elite defense is still there, and every team benefits from having an awesome two-way threat.

By combining Edwards and McDaniels, the Timberwolves have a formidable partnership. They also believe in each other, as they have grown in the NBA together. The Timberwolves have a solid foundation here, and they must keep building on it.

The series against the Lakers is not yet over, which is why the Timberwolves are not seeing it as a final result. They want to keep going and playing like their lives depended on it because they know their opponents are always big threats no matter what.