Jaden McDaniels has been a big reason the Minnesota Timberwolves' offense has not only weathered the storm in the absence of Julius Randleo, Donte DiVincenzo, and now Rudy Gobert, but has actually shown signs of improvement. Ben Beecken (@bbeecken) breaks down the increase in volume and adjusted shot distribution for McDaniels over the last few weeks. Plus, a continued shift in the Wolves' overall team offense, and a look at some of the memorable games the Wolves have played in OKC against the Thunder over the last several years.

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Today’s NBA West Squad Show focuses on the Lakers' recent success with Luka Doncic, the Nuggets' winning streak, and the Thunder's impressive performance. The hosts analyze how the Lakers' new lineup impacts their playoff prospects and debate the legitimacy of the Nuggets' recent wins. They also explore the Thunder's defensive prowess and potential matchups against top teams. The conversation shifts to the struggling Phoenix Suns, discussing their questionable trades and management decisions. Throughout the episode, the hosts provide insightful commentary on team dynamics, player performances, and the evolving landscape of the Western Conference.

0:00 Intro: Mavericks face former player

5:35 Lakers' transformation with Luka Doncic

9:47 Thunder and Nuggets: Recent performances analyzed

15:13 Role players' impact in playoff matchups

20:35 Suns' decline and uncertain future

26:05 Rebuilding strategies and asset management

30:43 Thunder's organizational success and transparency

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The Minnesota Timberwolves trailed by 24 points in the fourth quarter and by 16 with under four minutes to play, but a lineup led by rookies TJ Shannon and Rob Dillingham and leaning on Naz Reid and Jaden McDaniels surged past Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder for a memorable win. Ben Beecken (@bbeecken) breaks down why this was one of Chris Finch's best coaching performances, as well as Anthony Edwards' contributions despite an off night. Also, thoughts on the Wolves' defensive adjustments and out-physical-ing one of the most physical teams in the league.

Robinhood
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Door Dash
They Swoosh, You Save: when any player scores 50 or more points in a game during the 24/25 NBA regular season, DashPass members save 50% on an order, up to $10 off with promo code NBA50. 50% Off 1 Order (Up to $10 Off)

• Offer valid from 9:00 AM PT through 11:59 PM PT after a 50 point performance in any game during the NBA season on orders placed at participating merchant locations. Valid only in the United States. Maximum value of discount is $10.00. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code NBA50 to redeem. See further terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/.

FanDuel
Right now, new FanDuel customers can get ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS in Bonus Bets if your first FIVE DOLLAR bet wins!Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)