Ranking the Top 10 players in the Nuggets-Timberwolves series

8) Jaden McDaniels

Many people were shocked when the Timberwolves signed Jaden McDaniels to a five-year, $136 million contract extension in October. In these playoffs, McDaniels has shown the world why Minnesota paid him so handsomely.

The 23-year-old wing has emerged as one of the deadliest on-ball defenders in the entire association. Standing at 6-foot-9, McDaniels possesses a near 7-foot wingspan with elite athleticism and lockdown defense to lean on.

Against the Suns, McDaniels averaged 14.0 points on 50.0% shooting. However, he made his greatest impact by clamping up Devin Booker and Bradley Beal all series long. McDaniels collectively held the duo to 23.1% shooting from the field.

While his offensive skill set is still raw, McDaniels has serious potential. All-Defensive selections will come his way sooner rather than later, and the two-way specialist might be in store for a breakout series against the Nuggets.

In a viral video before the first round, Edwards countered the presence of Durant on the Suns with the presence of McDaniels and his defensive presence on the Wolves.

McDaniels’ defensive versatility will allow the Timberwolves to limit their deployment of double teams against Denver, which could prove incredibly important in this matchup. Even so, McDaniels will need to produce a solid offensive series to maximize his playing time against the Nuggets.