The NBA’s “Iron Man” club is dedicated to players who play all 82 games during the season without injuries or suspensions. The list had surprises like Chris Paul (San Antonio Spurs) but mostly featured typical players, such as Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels and guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker.
Jaden McDaniels averaged 12.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and two assists this season. McDaniels continues to anchor the defense, contributing to a unit that boasted the fifth-best scoring defense in the league.
Meanwhile, Alexander-Walker enjoyed a second consecutive season in the club, averaging 9.4 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.7 assists. His consistency off the bench gives Minnesota depth in the second unit.
Availability between the two is essential for the playoffs. The Timberwolves open against the Los Angeles Lakers, whom many have as the Western favorites after acquiring superstar Luka Doncic. However, star guard Anthony Edwards is ready for the challenge and confident in Minnesota’s recent trend. The Timberwolves have made great strides after being regressed to play-in contention a few weeks ago.
“I like the way we’re playing,” Edwards said after his 43-point performance against the Utah Jazz. “I mean, the defense could be a little better, it comes and goes. But I feel like playoffs is for us because we play physical defense, so we should be good.”
Minnesota kicks off the series in Los Angeles on Saturday night.
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