Rookie Jaden McDaniels Posterizes Blazers' Yang Hansen in Debut

On October 23rd, 2025, Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels made a statement in his NBA debut against the Portland Trail Blazers. Charging the lane, McDaniels put Yang Hansen on a poster with a monstrous dunk that cut the Blazers' lead to 46-42.

McDaniels' viscous throw-down even drew a "goodness" reaction from his own Timberwolves teammates, who were clearly impressed by the rookie's display of athleticism and power. The dunk immediately went viral on social media, with fans demanding to see more of McDaniels on offense every night.

One fan went as far as to call it the "welcome to the NBA" moment for the young forward, who has been the subject of trade rumors in recent weeks. Prior to the season, McDaniels' name was floated as a potential trade target for the Charlotte Hornets, who were reportedly interested in his defensive prowess.

However, the Timberwolves were unwilling to include McDaniels in a trade, even when Kevin Durant was rumored to be a target. Now, with his impressive debut dunk, the Timberwolves may be more inclined to keep the 6-foot-9 forward, who is signed to a five-year, $131 million contract extension through the 2028-29 season.