Timberwolves' Jaden McDaniels posterizes Deni Avdija with fastbreak dunk

McDaniels slammed it home with authority over Avdija during the Timberwolves vs. Trail Blazers matchup.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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During the first quarter of the Minnesota Timberwolves' matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers, Jaden McDaniels provided a candidate for dunk of the year. After Donte DiVincenzo stole the ball at half-court, he found a streaking McDaniels, who then soared through the air to posterize a defenseless Deni Avdija with a thunderous alley-oop finish.

Why it matters

McDaniels is known for his defensive prowess, but this play showcased his elite athleticism and ability to make highlight-reel plays in transition. The crowd in Minneapolis went wild as McDaniels threw down the powerful dunk over Avdija.

The details

The play started with Donte DiVincenzo snagging a steal at the half-court line. He immediately looked up to find a streaking McDaniels, and lofted a perfect pass toward the rim. McDaniels then soared through the air, posterizing a defenseless Avdija with a thunderous alley-oop finish.

  • The play occurred during the first quarter of the Minnesota Timberwolves' matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers on February 12, 2026.

The players

Jaden McDaniels

A defensive ace for the Minnesota Timberwolves who showcased his elite athleticism and verticality with a powerful dunk over Deni Avdija.

Deni Avdija

The Washington Wizards player who was on the receiving end of McDaniels' posterizing dunk.

Donte DiVincenzo

The Timberwolves player who stole the ball at half-court and found a streaking McDaniels for the alley-oop.

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The takeaway

This play showcased McDaniels' elite athleticism and ability to make highlight-reel plays in transition, further cementing his reputation as one of the league's premier defensive stoppers.