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Kings' De'Aaron Fox Reveals the Toughest Defender He Has Faced

De'Aaron Fox praises Timberwolves wing Jaden McDaniels for his defensive prowess.

The Sacramento Kings have a superstar in their grasp, as the development of point guard De'Aaron Fox has been phenomenal. This season, Fox has averaged 27.9 points and 5.8 assists, shooting 39.3% from deep on 8.3 attempts per game. While Fox has always been regarded as one of the most explosive players in the league, his improved three-point shot has put him over the hump.

While Fox is one of the best offensive players in the league (sixth in PPG), he is not invincible. In an interview with NBA.com, Fox revealed which NBA player gives him the most problems defensively:

Defensively, I would say Jaden McDaniels. He’s long. He has great anticipation. I would say he guards me the best in the league.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have found a gem with McDaniels, as he has helped propel Minnesota to the best defense in the league and first place in the Western Conference. The talented defender gives many skilled offensive players trouble, as Fox's answer is not out of the ordinary. 

The reason Fox's answer is interesting is that he rarely has a bad game against Minnesota. In 11 career games against McDaniels, Fox averaged 27.4 points and 5.9 assists, scoring under 25 just once. While slowing down Fox is a team effort, the stats do not necessarily back up his response. 

McDaniels is a world-class defender and gets high praise from the All-Star point guard.


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