Jaden McDaniels is a better player than Julius Randle despite ESPN’s rankings

ESPN released its annual NBA Rank for the 2026-27 season, placing former Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle at No. 54. Current Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels was ranked two spots lower at No. 56, with Nickeil Alexander-Walker placed between them at No. 55.

The ranking comes after Minnesota traded Randle to the Brooklyn Nets during the offseason. The article contrasts the two players, noting Randle's superior offensive box score stats alongside McDaniels' defensive impact and age difference, with McDaniels turning 26 and Randle turning 32.