News Article
Published
Oct 20, 2026 at 12:39 PM EDT
The Minnesota Timberwolves acquired LaMelo Ball in a blockbuster trade with the Charlotte Hornets this past offseason, pairing him alongside superstar guard Anthony Edwards in the backcourt.
Ball joins an established core of young talent in Minnesota, including star forward Jaden McDaniels. On Monday, the Timberwolves came to an agreement on a one-year, $40 million extension to keep McDaniels under contract through the 2029-30 NBA season.
When speaking to reporters on Monday, Ball delivered some high praise for McDaniels.
"Love Jaden. I mean, 6'10", can move, long, play defense, cut backdoor, shoot the 3. I mean, really anything you need. Damn near a 2k player," Ball said.
McDaniels averaged a career-high 14.8 points per game in his sixth season with the Timberwolves in 2025-26. He was also elite on the defensive side of the ball, averaging 1.1 steals and one block per game.
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Ball, McDaniels and the Timberwolves will open up their 2026-27 NBA regular-season campaign with a matchup against the Miami Heat on Wednesday night.