Player Preview: What is Jordan McLaughlin’s role?
The Minnesota Timberwolves re-signed Jordan McLaughlin to a contract extension, but what is his role heading into next season?
McLaughlin is a player you want to see succeed, regardless of the team he’s playing for. He’s an undrafted player out of the University of Southern California and has worked hard to get where he is today. After earning two two-way contracts with the Timberwolves, he finally received a multi-year deal.
Despite being deserving of a new contract, McLaughlin will have to fight for playing time this season. Minnesota will start D’Angelo Russell, with Patrick Beverley backing him up. They can also utilize Jaylen Nowell as a backup ball-handler.
Russell has had a history of injuries, and McLaughlin will earn playing time during his absence. Minnesota likes to play with multiple ball-handlers, and he could receive playing time with any of the previously mentioned names.
At 5-foot-11, McLaughlin is at a disadvantage. He’s not the best defender, nor is he the best offensive player, but he makes up for that with his basketball IQ.
McLaughlin’s play style and value for the Timberwolves were what Tyus Jones was for the team. Both are not the biggest, fastest or most athletic, but they make their impact by making winning plays.
These are things that are valuable for a team attempting to make the playoffs or in late-game situations. McLaughlin probably won’t play in many close games, but you’re not worried if he’s on the floor.
Last season, he averaged 5.0 points, 3.8 assists, 2.1 rebounds and 1.0 steals per game. On top of that, he shot 41.3 percent from the field, 35.9 from 3 and 76.7 from the charity stripe.
Because of his size, his shooting efficiency is best when he’s uncontested. Here are his shooting splits according to NBA.com:
- 2-4 feet (tight): 0.0 FGM, 0.3 FGA, 15.4%
- 4-6 feet (open): 0.2 FM, 0.5 FGA, 29.6%
- 6+ feet (wide open): 0.5 FGM, 1.3 FGA, 40.9%
The difference between contested and uncontested is a large margin. The Timberwolves have a lot of offensive weapons, and McLaughlin could benefit by playing off them.
Another category McLaughlin excelled at was in the pick and roll.
He and Naz Reid’s chemistry really developed this season, and it should only continue to grow.
McLaughlin is elite in the pick and roll during passing situations, but not so much when he decides to shoot. Teams will eventually play the pass in those moments, and it will hinder his full potential.
McLaughlin can receive playing time with the Wolves if they use multiple ball-handlers or there’s an injury. Minnesota is pretty deep at the one and two positions, and it’s hard seeing him earn playing time elsewhere.
