Jaden McDaniels Returns to Timberwolves Starting Lineup

Jaden McDaniels is set to return to the Minnesota Timberwolves' starting lineup against the New York Knicks in a preseason game Monday evening, October 12, 2026. The forward missed Minnesota's previous exhibition against the Miami Heat for rest purposes after producing efficient offensive performances in earlier preseason games.

According to CBS Sports and RotoWire, McDaniels sat out Saturday's matchup against Miami for maintenance before being cleared to return against New York. His latest start gives Minnesota another opportunity to evaluate his offensive contributions and perimeter shooting ahead of the 2026-27 NBA regular season.

McDaniels opened his preseason campaign with nine points on 4-of-5 shooting, including 1-of-1 from three-point range, in 15 minutes during Minnesota's 116-97 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on October 5, according to CBS Sports.

He followed that performance with an even stronger display from beyond the arc against Indiana. In Wednesday's 123-112 preseason loss to the Pacers, McDaniels recorded 16 points on 6-of-10 shooting, made four of six three-point attempts, grabbed three rebounds, and added one steal and one block in 21 minutes, according to RotoWire and CBS Sports.

The two performances highlighted his ability to contribute efficiently as a scorer while maintaining his defensive production. His four three-pointers against Indiana also demonstrated the perimeter threat he can provide from the forward position.

McDaniels enters the new season after shooting a career-best 41.2 percent from three-point range during the previous regular season. CBS Sports noted that his outside shooting could help him capitalize on open opportunities alongside Minnesota's backcourt, which is headlined by Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball for the 2026-27 campaign.

His role could also expand offensively following Julius Randle's departure. RotoWire identified the change in Minnesota's roster as a potential opportunity for McDaniels to increase his scoring contribution, although his production over the preseason has not yet established how significantly his responsibilities will change.

For Minnesota, McDaniels offers a combination of perimeter accuracy, rebounding, and defensive activity. His recent preseason statistics provide an early indication of his shooting efficiency, while his return against the Knicks follows a brief rest-related absence rather than a reported injury.