The Minnesota Timberwolves had a rollercoaster yet successful 2024-25 season built on the foundation set up by team president Tim Connelly. Expectations were high for the campaign because of the Western Conference Finals run in 2024, but that shifted when he made a trade days before training camp.
They still had the mainstays like Anthony Edwards, Naz Reid, and Jaden Mcdaniels. They were comfortable within the system, which is why they had some big campaigns in the 2024-25 season. McDaniels, in particular, was impressive on both sides of the floor.
The Karl-Anthony Towns for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo trade tempered expectations a big because they were not running it back with the same roster.
The unfamiliarity set in early because the Timberwolves struggled for the first half of the season, but they had a strong second half. Thankfully, Connelly, Coach Chris Finch, and the rest of the team were pleased that the players developed well, especially McDaniels.
The Timberwolves Have A Burgeoning Two-Way Star
Most people think about Edwards as the Timberwolves’ future centerpiece. Of course, he has earned that tag because of his superstar-level production over the past few years.
However, Edwards would be the first person to talk about his teammates. A player he loves playing alongside is Jaden McDaniels. They have played together since the start of their careers in 2020.
With his improvements as an offensive player alongside his elite defense, McDaniels has grown to be one of the Timberwolves’ most vital players. That is why Connelly has high expectations for McDaniels now.
“I think the sky is the limit, I think he’s one of the best young players in the NBA, his mid-range game is unbelievable and underappreciated,” Connelly said to the media. “His ability to get shots, obviously his last two years in the playoffs are reflective of a guy who’s not scared of the moment and defensively there’s not a better young defensive wing in the NBA.”
The Timberwolves Know McDaniels Is A Building Block
You will not see the Timberwolves shooting for many wing players because they know McDaniels is the right player to build the team with alongside Edwards.
They are the future of this team, so getting players around them is the best way to build the team. Connelly has clear expectations that McDaniels and Edwards are the building blocks for the franchise.
That is a good sign for McDaniels, as he has the green light to get stronger. The 2024-25 season was great for him and his development. He must maintain that momentum to cement himself as a star for Minnesota.
