Jaden McDaniels Ends 188-Game Streak Due to Wrist Injury

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels was sidelined for Wednesday’s game against the Washington Wizards due to a sprained left wrist, marking his first absence in nearly two years. McDaniels’ streak of 188 consecutive games played, including postseason appearances, came to an end with this injury.

Earlier in the week, McDaniels played only 23 minutes in a game against the Dallas Mavericks, where Minnesota won 120-96. He had to exit in the third quarter with the Timberwolves leading by 27 points.

The last time McDaniels missed a game was on December 8, 2023, due to a sprained right ankle. He had missed eight straight games at that time but rebounded to play consistently since then.

This season, McDaniels is enjoying some of the best statistics of his career, averaging 17.5 points per game and leading the NBA with a stunning 52.1% shooting percentage from beyond the arc. His overall field goal shooting rate is at 55.3%, while he is hitting 84.2% of his free throws, marking his highest numbers in six seasons in the league.

As Minnesota’s top perimeter defender, the Timberwolves will feel his absence as they continue their season.

“It’s tough to see a player like Jaden go down. He contributes so much on both ends of the floor,” said Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch following the announcement of McDaniels being ruled out.