Jaden McDaniels posters Danny Avdia with a quick dunk
When Jaden McDaniels set yourself on fire on the open floor, you they usually just want to get out of the way. Danny Avdia learned that the hard way on wednesday night.
During the first quarter Minnesota Timberwolves‘ match against the Portland Trail Blazers at the Target Center, “Slim Reaper” provided a legitimate contender for slam dunk of the year. The game started with Donte DiVincenzo, who has been a defensive pest all season, catching a steal at the half court line.
Jaden McDaniels throws it down with AUTHORITY 😤
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 12, 2026
DiVincenzo didn’t hesitate, immediately looking up to find the colorful McDaniels. He lobbed a perfect pass to the rim and McDaniels did the rest, soaring into the air and posterizing a helpless Avdia with a thunderous finish. The home crowd in Minneapolis absolutely lost it as the Timberwolves’ defensive ace showed off his elite verticality.
It’s still early in the game, but McDaniels’ highlight reel has already set the tone for a high-energy Western Conference clash. Minnesota is looking to protect their home court, where they have gone a solid 18-10 this season.
Anthony Edwards made his presence felt early, knocking down a 28-foot 3-pointer with another assist from DiVincenzo to keep the momentum going with the Wolves.
On the other hand, Avdia tries to shake herself off highlight and keep the Trail Blazers in the hunt as they look to extend their three-game winning streak. Portland has relied heavily on rookie Donovan Clingan recently and they will need his inside presence to oppose Rudy Gober if they want to escape Minneapolis with a win.
With the Timberwolves leading 61-51 at the half, this will be a tough contest. Minnesota’s defense has been the story so far, but with plenty of basketball left to play, the Blazers are rolling.
2026-02-12 01:57:00
