Jalen Marquis McDaniels, born on January 31, 1998, is a 6-foot-9 forward who has carved out a professional basketball career marked by versatility and defensive potential. Drafted 52nd overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Hornets, McDaniels has navigated the league, showcasing his skills across multiple teams. This article delves into his journey, exploring his career trajectory, playing style, and the various aspects that have defined his time in the NBA.
Early Life and High School Career
Born and raised in Federal Way, Washington, McDaniels displayed his athletic prowess early on. At Federal Way High School, he excelled in basketball, leaving a significant mark on the program. During his senior year, he averaged an impressive 19 points, 10 rebounds, and four blocked shots, earning him First Team All-State honors from the Associated Press. His contributions were pivotal in Federal Way’s undefeated 29-0 season, culminating in the Class 4A state championship title. Notably, he played alongside his younger brother, Jaden McDaniels, who is also an NBA player, during his freshman year, where they secured another state championship.
College Career at San Diego State
Following his successful high school career, McDaniels committed to San Diego State University. He redshirted his freshman season (2016-2017) to develop his skills further. Upon his active debut, he quickly became a key contributor for the Aztecs. In his freshman season (2017-2018), he started in 21 of 33 games, averaging 10.5 points and 4.7 rebounds in 24.7 minutes per game. His performance earned him the Mountain West Player of the Week honors in February 2018.
After a strong freshman campaign, McDaniels explored the possibility of entering the 2018 NBA Draft, even working out for the Cleveland Cavaliers. However, he ultimately withdrew his name before the deadline, deciding to return for his sophomore season. In his second year (2018-2019), McDaniels elevated his game, leading the team in rebounding with 8.3 boards per game while also averaging 15.9 points per contest. His two-year stint at San Diego State is considered one of the most productive two-year runs in the school’s history, as he played in every game and started in 55 of them, contributing to a combined record of 43-24 and a trip to the 2018 NCAA Tournament.
Professional Career
Charlotte Hornets (2019-2023)
McDaniels was selected by the Charlotte Hornets with the 52nd overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. He signed a four-year contract with the team, marking the beginning of his NBA journey. During his time with the Hornets, McDaniels showcased his versatility as a forward capable of playing multiple positions. He also spent time with the Hornets’ G League affiliate, the Greensboro Swarm.
Over four seasons with Charlotte, McDaniels gradually increased his role and production. He demonstrated his defensive capabilities with his length and agility, often guarding multiple positions effectively. Offensively, he showed flashes of scoring ability, primarily through cuts to the basket, transition play, and improving three-point shooting. In the 2022-2023 season, before being traded, he averaged a career-high 10.6 points and 4.8 rebounds in 26.7 minutes per game for the Hornets in 56 appearances, including 21 starts.
Philadelphia 76ers (2023)
In February 2023, McDaniels was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers as part of a four-team deal. This move provided him with an opportunity to contribute to a contending team heading into the playoffs. While his role with the Sixers was somewhat reduced, he provided valuable depth and defensive flexibility, appearing in 24 regular-season games and averaging 6.7 points and 3.2 rebounds. He also played in three playoff games for Philadelphia.
Toronto Raptors (2023-2024)
In July 2023, McDaniels signed a two-year contract with the Toronto Raptors. The Raptors valued his defensive mindset and versatility. However, his role with the team was limited. In the 2023-2024 season, he played in 50 games for Toronto, averaging 3.4 points and 1.6 rebounds in 10.8 minutes per game. His shooting efficiency during this season dipped, which impacted his playing time.
San Antonio Spurs (2024)
In a series of transactions during the 2024 offseason, McDaniels was traded by the Raptors to the Sacramento Kings in June 2024. Subsequently, in October 2024, the Kings traded him to the San Antonio Spurs along with a second-round draft pick. However, his stint with the Spurs was short-lived as he was waived by the team shortly after the trade.
Capital City Go-Go / Washington Wizards (2024-2025)
After being waived by the Spurs, McDaniels joined the Capital City Go-Go, the G League affiliate of the Washington Wizards. In 26 games for the Go-Go, he averaged 12.9 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.2 three-pointers, and 1.1 steals in 29.7 minutes per game, showcasing his abilities in the G League.
His performance in the G League earned him a 10-day contract with the Washington Wizards in February 2025, marking his return to the NBA. During his brief stint with the Wizards, he appeared in four games, playing a total of seven minutes. However, the Wizards released him to free up a roster spot for Justin Champagnie.
Playing Style and Analysis
Jalen McDaniels is recognized as a versatile forward with a focus on defense. His 6-foot-9 frame and long wingspan allow him to guard multiple positions effectively, from smaller guards to larger forwards. He utilizes his length to disrupt passing lanes, contest shots, and secure rebounds. While not an All-Defensive caliber player like his brother Jaden, his defensive capabilities have kept him in the league for several seasons.
Offensively, McDaniels is an athletic player who excels in transition and cutting to the basket. He has shown improvement in his three-point shooting over the years, making him a more viable floor spacer. However, consistency in his offensive output has been an area for development. He is a decent free-throw shooter, which is beneficial when he attacks the basket.
Scouting reports have noted that McDaniels needs to add strength to consistently defend against stronger power forwards in the NBA. He is considered an energy forward who can provide a spark off the bench with his athleticism and defensive effort. His ability to play both forward positions adds to his versatility and appeal to NBA teams.
Contract Details and Career Earnings
Throughout his NBA career, Jalen McDaniels has signed several contracts. His initial four-year rookie contract with the Charlotte Hornets was worth over $6 million. He then signed a two-year, $9.26 million contract with the Toronto Raptors in 2023. His 10-day contract with the Washington Wizards in 2025 was for $139,391.
As of May 2025, his estimated career earnings in the NBA amount to over $15.4 million. These figures reflect his base salaries and do not include potential endorsement deals or other income sources.
Family Background
Jalen McDaniels comes from an athletic family. His younger brother, Jaden McDaniels, is a prominent player for the Minnesota Timberwolves and was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2024. Jaden was a first-round pick (28th overall) in the 2020 NBA Draft. Their cousin is former NBA player Juwan Howard, who had a successful career and is currently a college basketball coach. Both their parents, Will McDaniels and Angela Jackson, have roots in Chicago.
Social Media Presence and Endorsements
While specific details about Jalen McDaniels’ endorsements are not widely publicized, professional athletes at his level often have endorsement deals with various brands, including athletic apparel, equipment, and other products. His social media presence is relatively modest compared to some of the league’s higher-profile players, but he uses platforms like Instagram and Twitter to connect with fans and share updates about his career.
Community Involvement
Information regarding Jalen McDaniels’ specific community involvement initiatives is not extensively available in public sources. However, many NBA players actively engage in community service and charitable activities, often supporting youth development, education, and local community programs. It is possible that McDaniels has been involved in such efforts without significant public attention. His brother, Jaden, has expressed a desire to give back to his community and work with youth, which suggests a family value of community engagement.
FAQs
Who is Jalen McDaniels?
Jalen McDaniels is an American professional basketball player known for his versatility as a forward. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches, he has played for multiple NBA teams, including the Charlotte Hornets, Philadelphia 76ers, Toronto Raptors, and Sacramento Kings. As of the 2024–25 NBA season, McDaniels is a member of the Sacramento Kings.
What is Jalen McDaniels’ current team?
As of the 2024–25 NBA season, Jalen McDaniels plays for the Sacramento Kings. He was traded from the Toronto Raptors to the Kings in June 2024 in exchange for guard Davion Mitchell and forward Sasha Vezenkov.
How has Jalen McDaniels performed in the 2024–25 season?
In the 2023–24 season with the Toronto Raptors, McDaniels experienced a dip in performance, averaging career lows of 3.4 points and 1.6 rebounds per game over 50 games. His role was limited, leading to reduced statistics.
What is Jalen McDaniels’ playing style?
Jalen McDaniels is known for his versatility on the court. He can play both forward positions and is valued for his length, athleticism, and defensive capabilities. Offensively, he contributes as a slasher and spot-up shooter, though his consistency has varied throughout his career.
What is Jalen McDaniels’ background and early life?
Born on January 31, 1998, in Federal Way, Washington, Jalen McDaniels played college basketball at San Diego State University. He declared for the NBA Draft after his sophomore season and was selected 52nd overall by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2019 NBA Draft.
How does Jalen McDaniels compare to his brother, Jaden McDaniels?
Jalen McDaniels is the older brother of Jaden McDaniels, who plays for the Minnesota Timberwolves. While both brothers share similar physical attributes and positions, Jaden has established himself as a key defensive player and starter for the Timberwolves, whereas Jalen has had a more journeyman career with multiple teams.
What are some highlights of Jalen McDaniels’ NBA career?
Some notable moments in McDaniels’ career include his increased role with the Charlotte Hornets during the 2020–21 season, where he started several games and posted career-high scoring averages. His versatility allowed him to guard multiple positions and contribute offensively when given extended minutes.
What is the outlook for Jalen McDaniels’ future in the NBA?
Jalen McDaniels’ future in the NBA will depend on his ability to carve out a consistent role with the Sacramento Kings. If he can leverage his defensive versatility and improve his offensive consistency, he could become a valuable rotation player. However, competition for minutes and team dynamics will play significant roles in his career trajectory.
To conclude
Jalen McDaniels’ journey in the NBA reflects the path of a versatile player striving to find his niche in a competitive environment. Starting with the Charlotte Hornets, he showcased potential as a flexible forward capable of contributing on both ends of the floor. His subsequent moves to the Philadelphia 76ers, Toronto Raptors, and now the Sacramento Kings indicate a career marked by adaptation and perseverance.
While his statistical contributions have varied, McDaniels’ physical attributes and defensive capabilities remain assets that teams value. His ability to guard multiple positions and provide energy off the bench makes him a candidate for specialized roles, particularly in defensive schemes that require switchability and length.
The 2024–25 season with the Sacramento Kings presents an opportunity for McDaniels to re-establish himself and potentially secure a more stable position within the team’s rotation. Success will likely depend on his ability to enhance his offensive efficiency, particularly in shooting and decision-making, while maintaining his defensive strengths.
In the broader context of the NBA, McDaniels’ career underscores the importance of adaptability, resilience, and continuous development. As teams increasingly value players who can fulfill multiple roles and adjust to various game plans, McDaniels’ versatility could be the key to a sustained and impactful presence in the league.
Ultimately, Jalen McDaniels’ story is one of determination and the pursuit of growth within the ever-evolving landscape of professional basketball. His journey serves as an example for aspiring athletes of the dedication required to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented at the highest level of the sport.
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