Timberwolves' Jaden McDaniels returns from knee injury

The young forward made an early comeback to help his depleted team against the Magic.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 3:34am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic motion of a basketball player driving to the hoop, with sharp, overlapping planes of bright blue, orange, and purple creating a sense of fragmented energy and movement.Jaden McDaniels' return from injury provides a timely boost for the Timberwolves as they gear up for the playoffs.Denver Today

Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels returned to action on Wednesday against the Orlando Magic, despite being expected to miss more time due to a knee injury. McDaniels scored 18 points in 19 minutes, helping the short-handed Timberwolves in their 132-120 loss.

Why it matters

The Timberwolves are currently the 6th seed in the Western Conference and will face a tough playoff matchup. Having McDaniels back in the lineup is a big boost, as the team is already missing key players like Anthony Edwards, Rudy Gobert, and Julius Randle.

The details

McDaniels, who is averaging 14.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.1 steals this season, pushed himself to return earlier than expected from the knee injury that had sidelined him for the last six games. He made the most of his 19 minutes on the court, scoring 18 points on 8-of-16 shooting.

  • McDaniels missed the Timberwolves' last six games due to the knee injury.
  • He returned to action against the Orlando Magic on Wednesday, April 9, 2026.

The players

Jaden McDaniels

A forward for the Minnesota Timberwolves who is averaging 14.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.1 steals this season.

Anthony Edwards

A key player for the Timberwolves who remains day-to-day with a knee injury.

Rudy Gobert

The Timberwolves' center who sat out the game against the Magic due to rest.

Julius Randle

The Timberwolves' forward who missed the game against the Magic due to hand soreness.

Terrence Shannon Jr.

The Timberwolves' player who stepped up with a career-high 33 points off the bench against the Magic.

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What they’re saying

“Just staying working, being in the weight room, even though I couldn't do much on the court. When I could go on the court, I made the most of it. Be stronger, come back healthy. I feel great, just a tribute to everyone helping me.”

— Jaden McDaniels, Timberwolves Forward

What’s next

The Timberwolves are already locked in as the 6th seed in the Western Conference. If the playoffs started today, they would face either the Denver Nuggets, the Los Angeles Lakers, or the Houston Rockets.

The takeaway

McDaniels' early return from injury is a positive sign for the Timberwolves as they prepare for the playoffs, despite missing several key players. His performance shows his determination to contribute and the team's depth, which will be crucial in a tough postseason matchup.