Despite a knee injury, Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch is determined to lead from the sidelines in the upcoming semifinals against the Nuggets.
In an unexpected twist during the NBA playoffs, Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch sustained a right knee injury at the conclusion of Game 4 against the Phoenix Suns. Despite the mishap, which occurred due to an accidental sideline collision with player Mike Conley, Finch has undergone successful surgery for a ruptured patellar tendon and is set to be on the sidelines for the upcoming conference semifinals against the Denver Nuggets.
The injury, which happened as the Timberwolves secured a sweep over the Suns, has prompted the team to consider rearranging the bench area to ensure Finch can manage the game comfortably and safely. Assistant coach Micah Nori, who temporarily took over coaching duties, confirmed that Finch is recovering well and will join the team in Denver for the first game of the series.
The challenge now is ensuring Finch can coach without risk of further injury. The team is exploring ways to adjust the seating arrangements to protect Finch from potential collisions, especially given the cramped conditions typical of an NBA bench area.
Mike Conley, whose accidental collision led to Finch's injury, was recently named the league’s "Teammate of the Year." Conley expressed his respect for Finch, noting the coach’s serious yet balanced approach to the game. Meanwhile, Nori praised Finch’s leadership and his preference to let the team’s performance speak for itself, emphasizing, "He trusts us and the players. He feels like, 'Just be yourself, you are doing good enough.'"
Rudy Gobert, the Timberwolves center, remarked that seeing Finch in good spirits post-surgery has been uplifting for the team. He stated, "Of course, this is an unfortunate thing, but we will give it a try." The team is rallied to perform well in Finch's honor as they progress deeper into the playoffs.
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