The Timberwolves center, Rudy Gobert, was named to the NBA’s All-Defensive Second Team, the French giant’s eighth time making the list. While a proud moment for all Wolves fans, it was not the only name some were expecting. Wolves star Jaden McDaniels, who is regarded as the best wing defender in the league, did not even make the top ten.

McDaniels posted 2.2 shots per game this season, a career-high. And he played a total of 82 games, something only a few others can boast about. While many would argue that Jaden was excellent, everyone on the list was equally deserving. However, the Wolves’ “Ant-Man” Anthony Edwards, disagrees.

In a post-Game 3 interview, the all-star, on their team’s defense strategy, said, “It starts with Jaden McDaniels. He didn’t make the All-Defensive Team, which is terrible for [the] people who get a vote. He showed them again tonight why he should be on the defensive team.”

So, did McDaniels get snubbed?

Well, the answer is maybe. Midway into WCF Game 2, the Wolves were visibly upset with the Thunder’s defenders. Their passing lanes were blocked, and the Thunder dominated the entire court. Though McDaniels advanced the Wolves’ offense with 22 points, it just was not enough.

Clearly, a moment of frustration Minnesota center pushed the 2024-25 NBA MVP, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, down. “I just wanted to foul him, for real,” McDaniels said after Minnesota lost Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals. “I wasn’t even mad, I just had fouls to use.” While McDaniels insists no foul play, the officials were not too thrilled, it seems.

Well, whatever the reason may be, Jaden McDaniels will not be joining Gobert on the All-Defense team. However, it is nice to see the teammates sticking up for each other on and off the court. With that, let’s now find out how the Wolves plan to level the field.

Will the Timberwolves continue their winning streak?

The Timberwolves flipped the script on the Thunder in Game 3. After two disappointing losses, no doubt a lot was at stake for the Wolves. The No.6 seed won the game 143-101, and their luck might continue, as Minnesota is all set to host its rivals for a second time at Target Center.

Though Wolves came through, the Thunder, on the other hand, fell short. SGA posted an all-season low with only 14 points. However, the Minnesota bench had a mission for Julius Randle after an underwhelming six points in Game 2. He was looking to redeem himself, and he sure did, with 24 points.

For Minnesota, another win will tie them with OKC. They have already proven that they can dominate, with the 42-point win the largest margin of victory in league history against teams that won 65+ in the regular season the same year. Now, they just need to lock down and finish the job.