A Season of Triumphs
After leading the Minnesota Timberwolves to a remarkable 56-win season and a berth in the Western Conference Finals, coach Chris Finch has been rewarded with a four-year contract extension that will run through 2028. The 56 wins rank as the second-best regular-season mark in franchise history, underscoring Finch's significant impact since his hiring in the 2020-21 season. Finch managed to align the Timberwolves' performance with the organization’s high expectations, creating an air of optimism around the franchise.
Building a Defensive Powerhouse
Since Finch took the helm, the Minnesota Timberwolves have consistently ranked in the top 10 league-wide in net rating, defensive rating, and victories. Last season, Minnesota showcased one of the best defensive units in the league, thanks in large part to the strategic acquisitions made by General Manager Tim Connelly. Trading for Rudy Gobert proved to be instrumental in anchoring their top-tier defense.
The acquisition of Gobert prepared the Wolves to face and eliminate the Denver Nuggets in the second round of the playoffs. Although Gobert's first season with the team did not go as smoothly as planned, his presence has bolstered the team’s defensive capabilities. Additionally, bringing in Mike Conley has also proven to be a masterstroke for the team, further strengthening their roster.
Player Development Under Finch
Coach Finch has been lauded for his ability to develop players. Finch has successfully turned Anthony Edwards into a bona fide superstar while convincing Karl-Anthony Towns to embrace a secondary role. His knack for making the most out of Minnesota's elite perimeter defenders has also received widespread acclaim. Despite ongoing turmoil surrounding the franchise’s ownership situation, Finch has managed to keep the team focused and unaffected on the court.
The Road Ahead
Although the Timberwolves have never made it to the NBA Finals, there is a renewed sense of hope within the organization. With a solid defensive lineup and a roster filled with burgeoning talent, the Timberwolves faithful are confident that Finch can guide the team to new heights. However, it remains to be seen if the Timberwolves' success will continue, especially considering the incredibly competitive nature of the Western Conference.
Comparisons have been made to the Atlanta Hawks, who made the conference finals in 2021 and rewarded coach Nate McMillan with a four-year contract, only to fail to make it past the first round of the playoffs in the subsequent three seasons. While these comparisons serve as a cautionary tale, there’s a strong belief within the Timberwolves organization that Finch is steering Minnesota's ship in the right direction.
"After leading the Minnesota Timberwolves to a 56-win season and a berth in the Western Conference finals, coach Chris Finch is being rewarded with a four-year contract extension that will run through 2028," reported ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, cementing Finch's future with the team.
As fans, players, and management alike look forward to the upcoming seasons, all eyes will be on Coach Finch to see if he can maintain the momentum and guide the Timberwolves to their first NBA Finals appearance. The challenges are many, but the potential for greatness is equally significant.