The five-year NBA veteran Jalen McDaniels took the next step in his basketball journey by signing a contract with the NBA G League. According to the league’s official transaction log, McDaniels was claimed via waiver by the Memphis Hustlealthough sources report that he is ready to join the Capital City Go-Gowaiting for an exchange between the two teams.
A Promising Start in the NBA
Selected 52nd overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Hornets, McDaniels quickly made a name for himself with his athleticism, defensive versatility and a developing three-point shot (career average of 34.2% from beyond the arc to Charlotte). Standing at 6’9″ with a 7’0″ wingspan, McDaniels showed his potential as a two-way contributor during his four years with the Hornets.
In 2023, he was traded to the Philadelphia 76erswhere he served in a supporting role during their playoff run.
A Turbulent Season 2023-24
McDaniels signed a two-year, $9.26 million contract with the Toronto Raptors in the 2023 offseason, but his time in Toronto was disappointing. Limited playing time and reduced production led to a series of trades:
- It was exchanged for i Sacramento Kings in an operation linked to the salary cap.
- Shortly thereafter, i San Antonio Spurs they acquired him but released him before the start of the 2024-25 season.
Now 26, McDaniels is looking to rejuvenate his career in the G League, a proven path for NBA veterans looking for a return to the big stage.
What’s next for McDaniels?
Although it is not eligible for a two-way contractMcDaniels could still earn one called NBA by signing a standard contract or a 10-day contract, starting in January 2025. His size, defensive skills and ability to spread the floor remain valuable assets in today’s NBA, making him a candidate for a team in need of depth in the role of winger.
I Capital City Go-Goaffiliated with the Washington Wizards, offer a strong development environment for McDaniels to prove his worth. A standout performance in the G League could quickly get him back on an NBA roster.
