The Minnesota Timberwolves have avoided major roster moves for next season.
Anthony Edwards remains the cornerstone of the franchise, with Julius Randle and Rudy Gobert supporting his efforts to remain competitive.
Interesting additions include rookie Joan Bellinger and young guard Rob Dillingham returning from injury.
This roster should allow the Timberwolves to remain competitive in the Western Conference after reaching the conference finals last season.
However, superstar Edwards believes the team could significantly improve with Jaden McDaniels’ improved offensive ability, especially his shooting and playmaking ability.
McDaniels is known for his defensive excellence, but he averaged just 12.2 points, 5.7 rebounds and 2.0 assists last season.
Heading into next season, Edwards expects McDaniels’ 3-point shooting percentage to improve from 33 percent.
“Jaden has definitely gotten a lot better when it comes to decision-making with the ball in his hands,” Edwards explained.
“Everyone knows he can score the ball. It’s what he does when he gets the ball when they get close to two. It’s important to make him understand that sometimes the shot is there and sometimes he can kick it out into the corner and make a play for somebody.”
“He’s really good at connecting with Rudy on lobs. We’re getting him used to giving him the ball and getting him comfortable. He’s definitely growing in that aspect. He seems to have more (confidence) now. We’re trying to maintain that.”
Edwards made bold claims about how McDaniels’ offensive evolution could change the Timberwolves.
“If he can make the right plays, we can be 10 times better. He’s a great scorer. What we need is him to be another facilitator.”
Edwards needs consistent scoring to make Minnesota more dangerous, and he clearly hopes to get more help from a player like McDaniels.
Last season, the closest scorers to Edwards’ 27.6 points per game were Randle and Naz Reid, but neither reached 20 points per game.
McDaniels probably won’t score more than 20 points, but an increase in offensive production could create a more complete Timberwolves team.
His development as a secondary playmaker and more efficient scorer could provide the complementary offense Edwards needs to lead Minnesota deep into the playoffs.