Last Updated on June 2, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

Jalen McDaniels is a versatile forward whose length and athleticism allow him to contribute in a variety of ways on both ends of the court. He has built his career by providing defensive flexibility, energy, and the ability to fill different roles depending on what his team needs.

Here is detailed information about Jalen McDaniels:

Player Profile

  • Full Name: Jalen Marquis McDaniels
  • Nationality: American
  • Age: Born January 31, 1998
  • Hometown: Federal Way, Washington, USA
  • Height: 6’9″ (2.06 m)
  • Weight: 205 lbs (93 kg)
  • Wingspan: 7’0″ (2.13 m)
  • Shoe Size: Size 16 (US)
  • Number: #7 (varied depending on team)
  • Position: Power Forward / Small Forward
  • High School: Federal Way High School (Federal Way, Washington)
  • College: San Diego State University (2017–2019)
  • NBA Draft: 2019, 2nd round, 52nd overall pick by the Charlotte Hornets
  • Teams Played For:
    • Charlotte Hornets (2019–2023)
    • Philadelphia 76ers (2023)
    • Toronto Raptors (2023–present)
  • Championship Rings: None (as of 2024)
  • Kids: None
  • Siblings:
    • Jaden McDaniels (younger brother, also an NBA player for the Minnesota Timberwolves).

Player Archetype / Play Style

Jalen McDaniels’ player archetype is that of a versatile combo forward: a long, mobile wing-big tweener who brings defensive flexibility, secondary slashing, and connective offense without needing heavy on-ball usage. At 6-foot-9 with a lean build and roughly a 7-foot wingspan, he is best defensively when switching across forward matchups, sliding with wings on the perimeter, and using his length to bother ball-handlers and close space, while offensively he fits as a complementary piece who can spot up, attack closeouts, run the floor, finish with long strides, and occasionally put the ball on the deck when the lane opens. (NBA)

Sources:

NBA — Jalen McDaniels | Forward | NBA.com
Raptors HQ — Player Preview: Jalen McDaniels – if he can shoot, he’ll play.
Peachtree Hoops — 2019 NBA Draft scouting report: Jalen McDaniels
Sports Illustrated — Jalen McDaniels Career Year has Gone Under the Radar