Inside The Wizards

Five Questions on New Wizards Prospect

The Washington Wizards are rolling the dice on a veteran looking to return to the NBA.

Jeremy Brener

Mar 13, 2024; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Toronto Raptors forward Jalen McDaniels (2) reacts in the second half against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Mar 13, 2024; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Toronto Raptors forward Jalen McDaniels (2) reacts in the second half against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images / Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
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The Washington Wizards are hoping to revive the career of fifth-year pro Jalen McDaniels, trading for his G League rights over the weekend.

McDaniels, 26, was with the Toronto Raptors last season, but was traded over the summer to the Sacramento Kings for Davion Mitchell. McDaniels was waived by the Kings just before the start of the season and had a cup of coffee with the San Antonio Spurs, but he failed to stick on. Now, he has a chance to do so with the Wizards' G-League affiliate.

To learn more about McDaniels, we spoke with Raptors Republic contributor Esfandiar Baraheni about why the power forward is on the fringe of the league and what he can bring to the Capital City Go-Go.

How was Jalen McDaniels last season with the Raptors?

McDaniels struggled to find his footing in Toronto, especially offensively where there wasn’t enough space for him to shine. He was given opportunities, especially early in the season, but just didn’t find his niche.

What’s one thing people should know about McDaniels that can’t be found in a box score?

McDaniels is an extremely hard worker. That won’t show up on the box score but he’s always the first one in the gym working out.

What is McDaniels’ biggest strength? 

His biggest strength is his length and activity on the defensive end. He’s great as the low man or as the weak-side help.

What is McDaniels’ biggest weakness?

His biggest weakness is shot creation. Especially in isolation situations or off the dribble.

Do you think McDaniels can make it back to the NBA, whether it be with the Wizards or another franchise?

I do think McDaniels can make it back to the NBA. He just needs to become a consistent shooter.

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Jeremy Brener
JEREMY BRENER

Jeremy Brener is an editor, writer and social media manager for several Fan Nation websites. His work has also been featured in 247 Sports and SB Nation as a writer and podcaster. Brener has been with Fan Nation since 2021. Brener grew up in Houston, going to Astros, Rockets and Texans games as a kid. He moved to Orlando in 2016 to go to college and pursue a degree. He hosts "The Dream Take" podcast covering the Rockets, which has produced over 350 episodes since March 2020. Brener graduated in May 2020 from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor's degree in Broadcast Journalism minoring in Sport Business Management. While at UCF, Brener worked for the school's newspaper NSM.today and "Hitting the Field," a student-run sports talk show and network. He was the executive producer for "Hitting the Field" from 2019-20. During his professional career, Brener has covered a number of major sporting events including the Pro Bowl, March Madness and several NBA and NFL games. As a fan, Brener has been to the 2005 World Series, 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2016 NCAA National Championship between the Villanova Wildcats and North Carolina Tar Heels. Now, Brener still resides in the Central Florida area and enjoys writing, watching TV, hanging out with friends and going to the gym. Brener can be followed on Twitter @JeremyBrener. For more inquiries, please email jeremybrenerchs@gmail.com.

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