Timberwolves: Jordan McLaughlin – Point God
It’s March 4, 2022, the Minnesota Timberwolves are 34-29, and Jordan McLaughlin is a Point God.
Never in a million years did I think I would have written this headline, but here we are. McLaughlin has found himself in and out of the lineup since signing with the Timberwolves in 2019.
At times, you’re wondering how no one has signed him, and sometimes you’re questioning why he’s even in the game. That’s been the case for him this season as well.
McLaughlin has been getting consistent playing time since Jan. 28, and he’s made the most of it.
During the month of February, he averaged 10.1 points, 4.9 assists, 1.7 rebounds, and had shooting splits of .539/.441/.737.
From Jan. 28 to Feb. 15, McLaughlin had an Assist to Turnover Ratio of 47/1. Wild.
When he’s in the game, you’re not as confident in his abilities as you are with D’Angelo Russell or Patrick Beverley. However, you know that he’s not going to turnover the ball, and that’s a need late in games.
One downside to his game is his size. At 5-foot-11, other teams have figured out that he’s more than likely to pass the ball in pick-and-roll situations. If you play the passing lanes, you’re going to have a higher chance at a steal.
McLaughlin has been one of the Timberwolves’ best players over the last 15 games and has posted the best net rating on the team (11.4). The next closest player is Jaden McDaniels at 7.9.
For anyone who hasn’t watched the Timberwolves this season, they’d probably scoff at this article. Even though he’s averaging 2.9 points and 2.8 assists per game, the former USC Trojan has been balling.
There is some concern come playoff time, and we may see Chris Finch tighten the ropes to an eight-man rotation. As well as McLaughlin has played, I would not be opposed if he didn’t get any run in the postseason.
If the Timberwolves shorten their rotation to eight players, more than likely, it would be McLaughlin and one of Taurean Prince, Malik Beasley or Naz Reid. As much as I’d love to see the Wolves continue to roll with what’s been working, it only makes sense to shorten the rotation. Minnesota will have to rely on its starters more if they want to make noise in the postseason.
Over the last 15 games, McLaughlin has provided a critical role off the bench. He leads the Timberwolves in net rating, and his on-court performances have provided the team with positive results.
Point God.