Redick has hosted several successful shows on a variety of platforms (The Vertical, The Ringer, Yahoo Sports), before he created his own media company in 2020 and launched the “Old Man and a Three” Podcast, which he quickly took to the moon, before being hired as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers in 2024.

The now repurposed “Young Man and a Three” podcast is still putting out regular episodes and currently has 1.1 million subscribers on YouTube. But just in case you forgot about all of JJ Redick’s previous career experience, Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch is happy to remind you

Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch goes after Lakers JJ Redick on Zach Lowe Show

He did just that Thursday night, when (speaking of podcasts) he made an appearance on the Zach Lowe Show, which the longtime NBA insider was hosting live from Minneapolis.

Lowe’s show last night had a bunch of local guests, including Timberwolves guard Donte DiVincenzo, The Athletic beat writer Jon Krawczynski, and the star of Thursday’s show, Finchy.

And pretty much immediately after taking the stage, Minnesota’s head coach went after JJ Redick. As he sat down, Lowe and Finchy started a friendly back and forth about the former’s recent time off. That quickly turned into a joke on Lowe about how, as a retired podcaster, he is now qualified to coach the Lakers.

Chris Finch shares his thoughts on podcasting:

“I mean… it will qualify you to coach the Lakers.” 💀

(via @ZachLowe_NBA) pic.twitter.com/toSIF7SmEs

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) November 14, 2025

Lowe: “My wife was worried about me. She’s like, ‘You’re such a workaholic. What are you going to do?’ I was like, “Watch how amazing I am at doing nothing.’ It was great.”

Finch: “I bet three-quarters of these people are going to go home and do a podcast tonight.”

Lowe: “You’re going with the anti-media tropes right out of the gate?”

Finch: “Well, it will qualify to coach the Lakers, you know…”

Zach Lowe Show – 11/13/2025

Related: Karl-Anthony Towns Still Misses Minnesota; Still Stunned by Trade

Chris Finch has been coaching the Minnesota Timberwolves (currently 7-4) for parts of six NBA seasons already. The 56-year-old Pennsylvanian was hired exactly halfway through the 2020-21 NBA season, under circumstances that were far from ideal.

But all he has done in the four-plus seasons since taking the job is go 216-164 (.568), appear in four-straight playoffs and two straight Western Conference Finals, easily implanting himself as the most successful head coach in MN Timberwolves history.

MN Timberwolves HC & Lakers HC have a history

Now, context is king and it’s important to mention, given how divisive the above comments could come off, without it. See, Chris Finch and JJ Redick have a history that goes far beyond the Minnesota Timberwolves vs Los Angeles Lakers playoff matchup last summer.

JJ Redick played for Chris Finch when the two crossed paths in New Orleans back in 2019-2020, during the twilight of Redick’s playing career, and right before Finchy was hired as Wolves head coach.

Since then, the two friends have made it very clear how much respect they have for one another, meaning Finch’s jab at Redick was likely an inside job, between two friends, and not something that will fuel a future rivalry between the Wolves and Lakers.

“[Coaching JJ Redick] was an absolute pleasure…But it was interesting to coach JJ because I learned a lot from him. I never coached the shooter at that level and then just [seeing how teams] guarded him so differently than even a lot of really good shooters.

So he imparted a lot of tricks of the trade, things that he needed that he had seen through his career. So it’s like anything else, you always learned from really good players. So, not surprised that he’s had success. He’s got a very sharp basketball mind, relates to people extremely well. He’s super competitive. He has all the DNA.”

Chris Finch on JJ Redick – The Orange County Register (April 19, 2025)

@infanitytelevision JJ Redick discussed his relationship with Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch #lakers #jjredick #lakersvstimberwolves #lakeshow #infanitytv #basketballgods ♬ original sound – InfanityTV.com

Plenty of Chris Finch vs JJ Redick in our future?

Having great players makes coaching a lot easier. And both Redick and Finch have enjoyed that luxury since their NBA head coaching careers began. For Chris Finch, he’s gotten to coach up the most talented player to ever put on a Minnesota Timberwolves jersey. Redick has had LeBron and now Luka.

No doubt about it, Anthony Edwards was already showing signs of his greatness back then, even if Karl-Anthony Towns was still the guy. But since Finchy has taken over, Edwards and his Wolves have flourished.

In the future, who knows what Ant and Finchy will do together. The hope is that they’ll end the 30-year curse currently hanging over the professional sports world in this town, and finally bring a men’s major-six title to a fanbase that hasn’t celebrated one since 1991.

To make that happen, however, they’ll have to go through a vaunted Western Conference that includes the likes of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Thunder, Nikola Jokic’ Nuggets and Luka Doncic’ Lakers, a task that they have yet to fully master, as both Shai and Luka have knocked them out of the last two playoffs.

ANT EDWARDS EURO-STEPPING AND SLITHERING INTO THE PAINT 😮‍💨

📺 Timberwolves (3-1) Lakers on TNT pic.twitter.com/5CFsDQc9ht

— NBA (@NBA) May 1, 2025

Related: Kevin Love Knew Jazz Were Cooked Early vs Timberwolves

But for now, the Minnesota Timberwolves have the upper hand on Doncic, LeBron and JJ, whose Lakers they beat handily in last year’s playoffs. Even if the two are buddies, however, I bet Redick will be a little extra motivated to change that this postseason.

Chris Finch needs to get his team over the hump, and superstar Anthony Edwards taking yet another step forward is part of the equation to get them there. Having reached such significant heights in consecutive years makes the Timberwolves opportunity for the next step difficult. That’s going to invite some doubters.

Minnesota Timberwolves come up short in projections

Last season the Timberwolves finished with 49 wins. Their over/under this season, per FanDuel Sportsbook, is 49.5. ESPN writer Kevin Pelton’s projection system doesn’t see them getting there.

The Timberwolves were one of my model’s big misses a season ago, winning 49 games while projected for 42.7. In part, Minnesota benefited from favorable health on the perimeter. Nickeil Alexander-Walker’s departure means one of the Wolves’ young guards will have to step into a rotation role, and Terrence Shannon Jr. — the most likely contender ahead of the season — projects poorly. But don’t blame Minnesota fans for thinking their team is underrated after back-to-back trips to the conference finals.

Kevin Pelton – ESPN

It’s fair to think that the loss of Nickeil Alexander-Walker is substantial. He was a significant glue guy for the Minnesota Timberwolves, and he earned the payday through his play off the bench.

It also sounds like Terrence Shannon Jr. isn’t getting enough respect from Pelton’s system. It was evident last season that Shannon Jr. deserved more time in the rotation, and he began to see an expanded role in the playoffs. He made a mockery of the Summer League, and could quickly establish himself as another go-to option this year.

While health was something that largely stayed on the side of Minnesota last year, the Timberwolves got just 69 games from Julius Randle. He was extended this offseason, and should be expected to remain in the starting lineup on a nightly basis.

Pelton still has the Timberwolves finishing with the 8th-best record in the league, which certainly makes them a playoff team. There isn’t some cliff being suggested here. However, they may need to fight their way to The Finals through a gauntlet is they are a bit further down in the Western Conference standings.

Minnesota kicks off their regular season schedule on October 22 in Portland against the Trailblazers.

But now, with a new ownership group ready to take over, the organization is trying to take yet another step forward on the court, from a perennial West playoff team and top conference contender, to NBA Finals winner.

How exactly the Wolves make that happen is up to president of basketball operations, Tim Connelly, who’s expected to sign a long-term contract extension to stay in Minnesota this offseason. But according to Shams Charania (ESPN), moving on from Chris Finch is not part of Connelly’s summer plans.

Minnesota Timberwolves deny New York Knicks request to interview Chris Finch

Because, if it was something Tim Connelly was interested in considering, then the New York Knicks reportedly called trying to grant the Wolves PoBO a perfect opportunity to unload the now 5-year head coach AND receive trade compensation, in return.

Late Tuesday night, Shams tweeted that the Knicks contacted both the Timberwolves and Rockets with requests to interview Finch, along with Houston head coach Ime Udoka. Unfortunately for those in the New York front office, neither team was interested.

The New York Knicks requested permission to speak to Minnesota Timberwolves coach Chris Finch and Houston Rockets coach Ime Udoka for their head coaching job, but were denied on both, sources tell ESPN. Knicks could request permission for other current head coaches too.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 11, 2025

Chris Finch is inarguably the most successful head coach in Minnesota Timberwolves history. With five seasons under his belt, Finch has already surpassed the longevity of any coach in franchise history, outside of the late, great Flip Saunders, who coached the Wolves two different times from 1996-2015, for a total of 11 seasons.

Related: Knicks Could Be Eyeing Timberwolves for More Help

Tom Thibodeau was here three years (2017-19), as was Rick Adelman (2012-14). No other head coach in the Timberwolves’ 36 years has a better regular season winning percentage than Finchy’s .566 (209-160). He’s also won more playoff games (21) than any Wolves coach before him, including Flip.

In fact, outside of Saunders Sr. — who posted a final regular season win percentage of .521 (427-392) and collected 17 playoff victories prior to his tragic passing — no other Wolves coach has even secured a winning record while in Minnesota.

Mavericks spurn Knicks too

So Wednesday morning, after being denied by the Minnesota Timberwolves and Houston Rockets, the Knicks picked up the phone and tried again. This time, it was the Dallas Mavericks on the other end of the phone call. The target: their head coach Jason Kidd. Again… the answer was an emphatic no.

The New York Knicks requested permission Wednesday morning to speak to Mavericks coach Jason Kidd – and Dallas gave a firm rejection, sources tell ESPN. Knicks have been denied now on Kidd, Minnesota's Chris Finch and Houston's Ime Udoka.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 11, 2025

The Knicks’ attempts to lure away these established coaches aren’t surprising, after reports dropped last week saying they’d be doing just that. I’m not sure why those inside the New York Knicks’ decision-making circle (which includes former Wolves PoBO Gersson Rosas) thought other NBA teams would be open to dealing their head coach.

And even if you did think it was possible, why make the process so public? Those questions are difficult to answer. But of course, we are talking about the James Dolan New York Knicks, which have been more of a clown show over the past three decades than they have been a basketball team.

MN Timberwolves, Tim Connelly still all-in on Chris Finch

Immediately following Minnesota’s WCF loss to the OKC Thunder, some in media and around the fanbase (me) questioned whether Chris Finch is really the right man for the job, going forward.

Most of those doubters (me) still wonder if Finch’s free-flowing, low-responsibility attitude, both in his offensive and locker room philosophies are what’s best for the growth and development of young talented players, especially Anthony Edwards.

But clearly, Tim Connelly does not hold any of those concerns. Thus, Finchy is here to stay, and I am fine with that decision too. At the end of the day, in Tim we trust.

Related: Suns Seeking a Timberwolves-Friendly Return for Kevin Durant…

Now, after their best two seasons since the non-title success they had in the 90s, they fired their head coach seemingly without a real plan to replace him. Where do the Knicks turn from here?

Minnesota Timberwolves assistant coach Micah Nori was one early candidate mentioned as a possibility… but I’d imagine New York wants someone more high profile than that. We’ll see if they can find what they are looking for.

Not only have the MN Timberwolves failed to win a Larry O’Brien Trophy during the franchise’s 36-year history, the Wolves have NEVER even been able to sew a patch graphic of one on their jerseys for an NBA Finals series.

Just three times — in 3.6 decades of the Timberwolves’ NBA existence — has this team even made the Western Conference Finals. Of note: Two of those three have come in consecutive seasons, under the leadership of president of basketball operations, Tim Connelly, head coach Chris Finch and rising superstar, Anthony Edwards.

But does that mean that’s the best three-headed monster to lead the Minnesota Timberwolves into the future Well, some (me) already asked that question, immediately following the Wolves’ latest WCF exit. You can read about how I feel, if you want, then decide for yourself. But in the end, our opinions don’t matter.

Other teams (New York Knicks) interested in trading for Chris Finch…?

The only opinion that really matters, when it comes to the future of Chris Finch — who obviously coached Karl-Anthony Towns before he was traded to New York — and KAT’s old team, the Minnesota Timberwolves, is Tim Connelly’s. As of now, there is no evidence to suggest that’s the case.

However, should our PoBO change his mind — and decide one way or another that Finchy is not the right man for the job, going forward — it sounds like at least one other team would be interested in trading for the Wolves 5-year head coach.

In a newly released notes piece at SNY.com, longtime NBA insider Ian Begley reports that the New York Knicks are eyeing up Finch — who holds the best winning percentage of any coach in Minnesota Timberwolves history, at .566 (209-160) — along with two other already-employed coaches, Ime Udoka (Rockets) and Jason Kidd (Mavericks).

Rockets’ Udoka, Mavericks’ Kidd, Timberwolves’ Finch among coaches under contract on Knicks’ radar for search:https://t.co/9fEkevoS5M

— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) June 6, 2025

Ime Udoka, Chris Finch, and Jason Kidd are among the coaches currently under contract who the Knicks have degrees of interest in…Kidd, 52, has been the Mavericks’ head coach since 2021. Udoka is the head coach of the Rockets, while Finch is the head coach of the Timberwolves…If the Knicks wind up hiring Udoka, Finch, or Kidd, they will be required to send compensation to their former team.

Ian Begley – SNY News Desk

It’s important to note that Towns isn’t the only thing that ties the Knicks back to the Minnesota Timberwolves. One of New York’s top executives, and lead decision-makers is former Wolves PoBO, Gersson Rosas, who back in 2021 was determined to hire Chris Finch the moment he fired Ryan Saunders, no matter who it pissed off.

Read: Knicks Could Be Eyeing Timberwolves for More Help

According to Begley, the New York Knicks are not all that interested in coaching retreads like Mike Malone, who was fired weeks prior to the postseason by the Denver Nuggets, or even popular candidates like former Villanova star coach, Jay Wright. Interestingly enough, The Athletic has already linked Wolves assistant coach, Micah Nori, as a possible candidate too.

What does the NBA prophecy (script?) say about the future of Minnesota Timberwolves leadership?

For now, though, Ian believes that Knicks’ decision-makers plan to be patient, as they search for an improvement from Tom Thibodeau, who was fired days after coaching New York to their first Eastern Conference Finals since the 1999-2000 season, not to mention two-straight East Semis before that.

For two-straight offseasons now, there have been questions surrounding Tim Connelly’s future as president of basketball ops. Now that Marc Lore (along with Alex Rodriguez and a host of billionaire minority investors) are set to take control of the organization this month, however, Connelly has confirmed he’s likely in for the long haul too.

We also know that Anthony Edwards — freshly equipped with a 5-year, $244.6 million maximum contract extension (which will go up even more when he makes another All-NBA team) that kicked in last season and has four years remaining — is not going anywhere either.

Does that mean Chris Finch is locked in as the third wheel to the Wolves’ leadership tricycle, underneath the new ownership group? As of now, that answer is yes. But if we ever hear otherwise… it sounds like things could get interesting fast.

But when you turn the ball over 21 times, allow 19 offensive rebounds and 38 points in the fourth quarter, not even 23 points from Nickeil Alexander-Walker, 21 from Donte DiVincenzo or 22 more from Jaden McDaniels can save you.

Had Minnesota’s role players not shot out of their minds, the Wolves might have lost by 20. Because the plan Oklahoma City had for Anthony Edwards rendered him mostly non-existent in game four, the second time in this series the Thunder have been able to shut Ant down.

Anthony Edwards comes up short for the Minnesota Timberwolves again…

Oklahoma City let their guard down in game three and Edwards went off for 30 pts on 71% shooting. In game four, the Thunder clamped back down and the supposed superstar responded with one of the more underwhelming playoff performances of his young career, finishing with 16 points on just 13 shots. When the game was on the line, he deferred.

CHET SWATS IT OFF THE GLASS 🚫 pic.twitter.com/uRTGhNRdwq

— NBA TV (@NBATV) May 27, 2025

The NBA’s leading three point shooter in 2024-25 regular season went 1-of-7 from deep, to go along with 6 rebounds and 4 assists. On a night when the Minnesota Timberwolves needed their superstar to be a superstar… he was relegated mostly to a facilitator who struggled to find his shot.

OKC’s suffocating defense was up in Anthony Edwards’ business every time he touched the basketball, defending with intensity and physicality that left him feeling uncomfortable all night. It’s a style of defense that Ant has struggled with throughout his career.

After the game, we once again got to hear Edwards tell reporters how helpless he felt throughout the evening, a theme we have heard way too often during postgame interviews these playoffs.

When asked about the struggle Ant faced getting to his spots, the 23-year-old budding superstar laughed off any notion that he could’ve made a bigger impact in the game four scoring column.

Ant-Man: "I made the right play all night so I don't really look at it like I struggled. I didn't get enough shots to say I struggled. I didn't struggle at all" pic.twitter.com/2lrweh2mFu

— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) May 27, 2025

“I don’t look at like I struggled or [Julius Randle] struggled. They just… they had a good gameplan, making us get off the ball, especially me, man. They was super in gaps, I made the right play all night so I don’t really look at it like I struggled. I didn’t get enough shots to say I struggled. So that’s my opinion. That might be how you guys look at it, but yeah, I didn’t struggle at all, I was just making the right play.”

Anthony Edwards on how he *didn’t* struggle in game four

On Saturday night, Edwards’ early focus and sense of urgency lit the Target Center crowd on fire and locked in his teammates mentally for the next three quarters of a game that they eventually won by 40 points. But that killer Ant we saw take over Saturday night right from tip, flying around and making plays on both sides of the floor… was non-existent.

Sure, Anthony Edwards made the right decisions. He tried to get downhill and find the rim but the OKC defense was determined to suffocate him. They know that the key to killing the playoff Timberwolves is stopping Ant-Man. If he goes off, you will lose. But for whatever reason, when teams decide to lock in on Edwards, they’ve been able to tame his production and force the Wolves to win in other ways.

Against lesser opponents, like the Lakers in round one and the Steph Curry-less Warriors in round two, Minnesota had plenty of firepower to do just that. But against a team like OKC, relying on secondary stars and role players to win games is not a formula that breeds success, something we are finding out the hard way in the Western Conference Finals.

Is Chris Finch the Minnesota Timberwolves’ playoff problem?

So what is the problem? Because Ant isn’t the NBA’s first superstar. Michael Jordan won six NBA Finals with the entire league trying to stop him. Before him, everyone was trying to slow down Magic, Bird, Russell, Kareem, etc. After MJ, they couldn’t stop Kobe, LeBron, Steph…

Well, maybe it’s time we look harder at Chris Finch. Yes, the Minnesota Timberwolves head coach is beloved by his players, including Ant. Finchy — who is 369-209 (.566) in his five years leading the Wolves — along with president of basketball operations, Tim Connelly, have taken this franchise to places we never really dreamed of, including two-straight West Finals appearances.

But is Chris Finch the right guy, going forward? Because he is showing a lot of warts this postseason, especially when it comes to unlocking his superstar. And while there is plenty of blame to go around, it’s Finch’s responsibility to get the best out of Anthony Edwards, something he has not been able to do consistently.

Finch likes a free-flowing offense, with little structure. That’s fine… when it works. But in the playoffs, structure often wins games. Hunting matchups, using screens to force switching defenses into the matchups you want, then executing, in order to capitalize on whatever advantage you are trying to create.

That’s how teams win in the NBA Playoffs. That’s how good coaches get their best players in space, when the opponent’s sole goal is to stop that from happening. And the Wolves are not doing it, mostly because it seems foreign to them… and because Chris Finch hates it.

I thought this analysis from Dane Moore after game two really highlights what the Minnesota Timberwolves are missing in this series and why Chris Finch’s offensive style has become a problem.

That’s not how Ant approaches [offense] and he has a coach that doesn’t ask him to play a structured style of play and never has. And that’s cool, and it’s [worked at times]. But [their casual style] is illuminated against a team like this that plays very sharp. Shai is very directive, and you know what it is [that he wants to do].

I feel like this series is exposing that gear of structure that this Wolves team has never had. Intentionally, since Rudy Gobert got here, they’ve never been like, ‘we’re going to be a team that runs pick and roll here’. They don’t because Finch hates that. He hates the the homogenization, or whatever of it. He doesn’t want to do that.

If the series goes down in a similar pattern, to how it has gone, it doesn’t make the offense that [the Wolves] have, and the flow-based concept system a bad idea. But to me, it would be nice if you had another gear where you could be much a little bit more robotic offensively. I know that sounds bad but they don’t have that.

Dane Moore – The Dane Moore NBA Podcast

Chris Finch is already the winningest playoff coach in Wolves history (21 playoff wins), recently surpassing the late Flip Saunders (17 playoff wins). From the outside looking in, firing Finchy may seem asinine. But is it really? Because NBA history says otherwise.

The Best teams in NBA history needed a coaching change

Many of the greatest teams in NBA history needed a coaching change before they were able to take the next step, and that is especially true when it comes to great player-coach combos. The Chicago Bulls hired Doug Collins, going into Michael Jordan’s third year in the league.

Collins led the Bulls to the East Semis in 1988, where they fell to the Detroit Pistons in five games. Then, in 1989, Chicago made it to the Eastern Conference Finals, before falling to the Pistons yet again, this time in six games.

That offseason, Collins was fired and replaced with Phil Jackson, who had been an assistant in Chicago, prior to his promotion. Two years later, the Bulls won their first ever NBA Championship. Eight years later, they had won six total. Michael admitted that he was not happy with the move when it was first made.

"Congratulations, let's go win a championship." Michael Jordan to Phil Jackson after the @chicagobulls named him head coach in 1989.

The Last Dance continues Sunday, April 26 at 9:00 PM ET on ESPN. pic.twitter.com/hcn36yvkWN

— NBA (@NBA) April 24, 2020

Fast-forward a decade, a young Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal are winning 60 games per season for the Los Angeles Lakers from 1996-1999, under head coach Del Harris. Unfortunately, he was canned in the middle of the 1998-99 season, after the Lakers underperformed in the playoffs and failed to make it out of the West.

Enter Phil Jackson for the 1999-2000 season, where the Lakers go onto win their first of three-straight championships. Want more? How about we stay out west this time? In 2014, the Steph Curry-led Golden State Warriors are eliminated from their second-straight playoffs under third-year head coach Mark Jackson.

Related: Time for Anthony Edwards to Earn His NBA Superstar Label

That offseason, he is fired and replaced with Steve Kerr. Much of the NBA is furious. One year later, Golden State wins their first NBA championship, then proceeds to play in the next four NBA Finals after that, winning three total rings in five appearances from 2015-2019.

So, before you wave off the idea that Chris Finch is the Minnesota Timberwolves’ biggest playoff problem, open up your mind. Because this wouldn’t be the first time a really good team has needed a coaching change, in order to become great.

And whether it happens or not, Tim Connelly should be carefully combing through all options to improve this team next season, and that includes head coach.

With Steph Curry out expected to be out for the foreseeable future with a left hamstring strain, Minnesota fans should still feel pretty good about the Timberwolves’ chances to beat the Warriors in a seven-game series. Yes, even after how brutally they played in game one.

Chris Finch not happy with Anthony Edwards after game one

But don’t tell that to Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch, who did not hold back in his post game press conference when describing his disappointment in how 23-year-old superstar Anthony Edwards came out in game one against Golden State.

Chris Finch on the team mentally checking out

"It starts with Ant, he struggled early, and then you could just kinda see the light go out for a while. — I think it was one of those games where he came out with a predetermined mindset of what he was going to do." pic.twitter.com/RuHCL8kOYZ

— Jonah (@Huncho_Jman) May 7, 2025

It starts with Ant. I thought he struggled early, and then you could just kind of see the light go out for awhile. I think it was one of those games where he had a predetermined mindset in what he was trying to do, rather than just playing the game that was in front of him.

Chris Finch – Timberwolves vs Warriors (Gm 1) Postgame Press Conference

Finch acknowledged that Edwards looked better in the second half, but an empty box score wasn’t about to make the Wolves head coach feel better about what his professional baseketball eyes watched unfold Tuesday night in Minneapolis, as Timberwolves fell behind and Ant mustered just one point and missed every shot from the field.

Anthony Edwards finished game one with 23 points on 9-of-22 shooting, 14 rebounds, 3 steals, 2 assists and a -4 point differential while on the court. As Finchy mentioned, he did get better in the second half.

"You're the leader of the team and you've gotta come out and set the tone."

Chris Finch wants Anthony Edwards to carry the energy even when his shot isn't falling 🎤 pic.twitter.com/KQNyDBem72

— NBA TV (@NBATV) May 7, 2025

“What is there to talk about? You’re the leader of the team. You need to come out and set the tone, always. If your shot’s not going, you still have to carry the energy. If I have to talk to guys about having the right energy coming into the opening of a second round game then we’re not on the same page, so…”

Chris Finch – Timberwolves vs Warriors (Gm 1) Postgame Press Conference

Related: What We Learned About the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game One Loss vs Warriors

If Edwards is going to be the league’s next superstar, like his NBA prophecy predicts… then first half performances like Tuesday night cannot happen.

Minnesota Timberwolves need Ant to be Ant, going forward

But knowing Ant, he will come out in game two like a bat out of hell. I mean, just look at his face when told after game one that the Minnesota Timberwolves are 12-of-76 from deep in their last two playoff games.

Anthony Edwards' face when someone tells him the Wolves have shot 12/76 over the last 2 games shooting from 3 lol pic.twitter.com/jro8nW3ed5

— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) May 7, 2025

Anthony Edwards on the missed threes in Game 1: “They can blame me. I just didn’t play good enough.” pic.twitter.com/Lv3sPeHzFv

— Star Tribune Sports (@StribSports) May 7, 2025

If there is one thing we know about our young superstar, it’s that he is one of the most coachable talents in the NBA, which is why Chris Finch felt the need to publicly call out Edwards the way he did. Because he knows it will make him better in game two, and beyond.

The Suns led 72-70 when Finch was ejected. The Timberwolves pulled away minutes later. They ran away with a win that will go a long way in building belief that this team is not far off from replicating last season’s success.

Related: 3 Minnesota Timberwolves Problems Solved vs the Nuggets

Coach Finch was issued his first technical foul for profanity with five minutes remaining in the first quarter. It seemed Finch was dead-set on earning his first ejection as an NBA head coach. It had the desired effect.

The Minnesota Timberwolves played angry vs Phoenix

Chris Finch reportedly “woke up choosing violence” on Wednesday. That’s how Nickeil Alexander-Walker described his coach’s attitude to Chris Hine of The Minnesota Star Tribune. It was apparent to everyone attending their film session, Wednesday. But rewatching that Atlanta game would anger most fans, let alone players and coaches.

“Finch is typically candid in these sessions, and he isn’t afraid to get on players, regardless of their status on the team. Edwards has never been spared from Finch’s film clips and sharp tongue that offers blunt critiques. Wednesday’s was at another level, the players said. Nobody escaped Finch’s wrath.“

-Chris Hine, The Minnesota Star Tribune

The Timberwolves took on the the demeanor of their head coach, playing with a fire reminiscent of their playoff sweep of the Suns last season. After failing to show a spark in the win over uber-injured Atlanta, the team showed a cohesiveness and camaraderie Timberwolves fans haven’t seen from this group.

A basketball official’s perspective

As a high school basketball official, I can provide the refs’ perspective on this. Every ref with whom I work does their damnedest to avoid issuing technical fouls. The few I know working college games have the same objective. But the higher the level of play, the more instances there will be where technical fouls are warranted and necessary. That’s why it seems like NBA officials hand out techs like candy.

Related: Timberwolves Land Youngster on NBA Rising Stars Roster

Technical fouls aren’t issued in a vacuum, either. Officials don’t forget that Chris Finch picked up his first technical seven minutes into the game for profanity. In fact, during the first timeout after issuing that technical foul, the officiating crew is likely discussing how long a leash they’re going to allow him. Typically, that leash is damn short.

The second tech always comes more easily than the first. This is why I was surprised by how surprised Finch looked when he was ejected. He appeared to be making small talk with Bradley Beal on the sideline. This happened as the officials and scorekeepers determined whether the score was correct. Finch reportedly called the officiating crew “bozos” when talking to Beal during the delay.

Crew chief Pat Fraher told a pool reporter Finch used “profanity” directed toward one official. On the second technical, Fraher said Finch made “derogatory comments toward all of the officials.” A source who asked not to be identified said Finch referred to the officials as “bozos.”

-Chris Hine, The Minnesota Star Tribune

Chris Finch EJECTED…Bradley Beal’s reaction. 😂

pic.twitter.com/nyoOXfpXB6

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) January 30, 2025

Why ‘bozo’ is enough to get tossed

It might seem ridiculous considering some of the language that sneaks through the on-court microphones and into our living rooms. However, any derogatory comment about the officials warrants the issuance of a technical foul. While Finch’s comment was meant for Beal, it was delivered right in front of an official. The official rightfully issued a technical foul.

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It doesn’t matter for whom the message is meant. What matters is what’s meant by the message. The message was meant to undermine the officiating crew’s ability to control the game. If the official within earshot allows Finch’s “bozos” comment to slide, it could inspire more animated criticisms from Beal and his teammates, too.

The officiating crew deserves credit for controlling what tends to be a chippy game. This holds true whether a coach is pissed off or not. They handled this beautifully. Chris Finch also played it perfect. He got what he wanted out of his team and did so with maybe the least disrespectful diss in the English language. And the Minnesota Timberwolves overcame their shared shame to look like the team their coach knows they can be.

The Timberwolves proved it with a whoopin’ of Nikola Jokić and the Denver Nuggets at Target Center, Saturday afternoon. Despite Anthony Edwards playing sick, Minnesota never trailed and ran away with the game, winning 133-104.

Here are three huge problems that have been plaguing the Timberwolves and how they were solved this weekend against the Nuggets.

Solved: The Minnesota Timberwolves’ paint points problem

Last season the Minnesota Timberwolves ranked 13th with 50 paint points per game. This season they’re 24th, averaging 44.3 paint points per game. On Saturday, Minnesota set a season high with 72 points in the paint. That accounted for 55.8 percent of the Timberwolves’ scoring.

Now Denver’s defense has taken a significant step back this season, falling from second in defensive rating last year to 16th prior to Saturday’s beatdown. They fell two more spots after the blowout loss to Minnesota. That doesn’t mean the Timberwolves shouldn’t attack the paint against better defenses, though.

The Timberwolves made it a point to get Rudy Gobert involved offensively early and often. It paid off in a big way. Gobert was more active on both ends of the floor as a result, and the Timberwolves got off to a fast start. Everyone’s more open when Gobert is an offensive threat, but you gotta get him the ball early to establish that threat.

Anthony Edwards awesome PnR pass to Rudy Gobert for the layup, Ant loves it pic.twitter.com/s1RR2LBkFR

— Timberwolves Clips (@WolvesClips) January 25, 2025

Julius Randle was another big contributor to solving the paint points problem. He took two bad shots in the first quarter, but when he took the ball to the basket, he got good looks and/or free throw opportunities. He needs to seek out more opportunities to set a screen and force a switch to get a mismatch he can back down in the paint.

Related: Timberwolves Tumbling Down NBA Power Rankings

If the Timberwolves make it a point to attack the paint early and often, they’re more likely to start fast and not lose the offensive energy of Gobert and Randle by putting them in positions to succeed. If they start fast, they might avoid another problem like they did against Denver.

Solved: The Minnesota Timberwolves’ clutch time problem

The Timberwolves have played 29 games featuring clutch time, which is the last five minutes of regulation or overtime when the score is within five points. That’s most in the NBA. Minnesota is 13-16 in those games, which ranks 20th in the league. Last season the Timberwolves played the 18th-most clutch-time games and posted the eighth-best record in those games.

Opponents have picked on Julius Randle defensively in clutch time, and it’s worked. It’s worked so well that Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch has cut Randle’s minutes in the fourth quarter.

Related: Rumor: Julius Randle Disgruntled After Timberwolves Cut His Minutes

Now with Donte DiVincenzo hurt, trading Conley is extremely unlikely since he’s been better defensively than rookie Rob Dillingham in clutch time. But Conley is 0-for-10 in clutch time this season after shooting it better than Karl-Anthony Towns last season.

Regardless of who’s on the floor, the Timberwolves cease to move the ball during the most crucial moments of games. Minnesota ranks 28th in the league when it comes to assisted field goals made in clutch time (42.9 percent). Only the Sacramento Kings and Portland Trail Blazers move the ball that badly in clutch time.

The Timberwolves rank second in the league with 47.4 percent of their clutch-time, three-point field goals made coming unassisted. They rank 25th in percentage of two-point field goals attempted in clutch time (45.4 percent).

Solved: The Minnesota Timberwolves’ isolation problem

That’s simply too much isolation offense to not get more shots closer to the basket, or better yet, at the foul line. It’s typical Chris Finch “let-the-dudes-play” isolation offense in the closing minutes of games. Problem is the dudes ain’t good enough to do that anymore.

The Timberwolves have the highest turnover frequency in isolation – by a lot. Minnesota turns over the ball in isolation 17 percent of the time. That’s 1.4 percent more than the Washington Wizards. The effing Wizards! Guess how many turnovers the Wolves had vs the Nuggets? Four. That’s winning basketball.

Naz Reid no-look PnR pass to Nickeil Alexander-Walker for the corner 3 pic.twitter.com/TS6Te7ANQr

— Timberwolves Clips (@WolvesClips) January 25, 2025

In 2024-25, Minnesota’s score frequency on isolation plays is also second-worst in the league (36.4 percent). Only Atlanta scores at a lower rate on isolation plays. The Timberwolves shoot just 41.1 percent on isolation plays. Only Atlanta, Utah, and New Orleans shoot worse.

Related: Timberwolves Insiders: Don’t Hold Your Breath for a Julius Randle Trade

Despite all this, Minnesota runs isolation at the sixth-highest rate in the NBA (8.5 percent). The Timberwolves would be better served by running isolation at a league average rate around six percent or less. That would reduce turnovers, increase possessions, and result in better shots.

So the solution isn’t trading Julius Randle. The solution is attacking the paint from the jump to avoid clutch time altogether, which is exactly what happened on Saturday night against Denver. Then, it’s resisting the urge to run isolation offense unless mismatches present themselves. Chris Finch can figure this out with the players he’s got. Saturday’s beatdown of Denver is evidence of that.

Jaden McDaniels catch-and-shoot 3, assisted by Julius Randle pic.twitter.com/uDoOhB6LnQ

— Timberwolves Clips (@WolvesClips) January 25, 2025

But if you’d like to trade Julius Randle, we’ll be discussing 10 Julius Randle trades tonight @foulplaybyplay on YouTube at 8 p.m. Central time. Give us your questions and comments in the chat!

However, now there’s a sense that the 2024-25 Timberwolves need to take another step forward. If not, the decision to trade Karl-Anthony Towns for Julius Randle + Donte DiVincenzo will draw immense scrutiny, even if it may have been partially related to cleaning up the Wolves’ future cap sheet.

Now, with a new Timberwolves season upon us, it’s time to make some bold predictions for the year ahead. Can the Timberwolves take that crucial step forward? Is Anthony Edwards ready to become the face of the NBA?

Related: Bally Sports Naming Rights Sold to FanDuel – What it Means for Minnesota Sports Fans

Jaden McDaniels averages new career-high in scoring

Jaden McDaniels is both one of the most beloved members on the team and one of the most scrutinized. It wasn’t always this way; he used to simply be a fan favorite for his quiet yet aggressive demeanor, especially on defense. In just four seasons, McDaniels has developed into one of the best defenders in basketball, with the ability to guard anyone from a point guard to a power forward on any given night. It’s why he earned All-Defensive honors last season.

However, McDaniels is rarely ever under the microscope due to his defense. It’s his offense that fans want to see more of. At times, we see a silky smooth jump shot that shows shades of Kevin Durant, whereas other times he hits a cold streak so bad that we can’t help but wonder if another player wouldn’t offer more of a scoring jolt.

• Jaden McDaniels stats (2023): 10.5 PPG, 33.7% 3PT, 3.1 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Yet, if there’s one thing that you cannot knock about the 24-year-old Seatbelt, it’s that he’s a tireless worker. Now that he’s had another full summer to work on his game, we wouldn’t be shocked to see McDaniels return as a much more consistent scorer, and he could be asked to take more shots now that Karl-Anthony Towns isn’t soaking up 15.3 shots per game. In other words, don’t be surprised if McDaniels blows past his previous career-high scoring average of 12.1 PPG, set in 2022-23.

Related: Minnesota Timberwolves Reveal the Worst Official Hashtag in Social Media History

Donte DiVincenzo wins NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year

The Timberwolves already have the NBA’s reigning Sixth Man of the Year in fan favorite Naz Reid. He’s likely to see an even bigger workload with the departure of Karl-Anthony Towns, and is likely the team’s power forward of the future. But now he has another scoring stalwart coming off the bench alongside him in Donte DiVincenzo.

As great as Reid is at scoring from anywhere on the floor, DiVincenzo is a much more natural shooter with the ability to heat up like a microwave. He’s constantly working to get himself open, and having a massive shield like Rudy Gobert to set picks for him could set up a ton of open shots.

Although the Wolves plan to give Mike Conley more rest, which could lead to DiVincenzo becoming the replacement starting point guard on certain occasions, we wouldn’t be surprised to see him come close to the same 15.5 PPG scoring average from last season.

Reid averaged 13.5 PPG, 5.2 RPG, and 1.7 stocks per game (blocks + steals) to win his award. “The Big Ragu” may not come close to those rebounding or defensive stats, but if he can shoot 40% from distance again while providing more assists as a playmaker, he just might win his first Sixth Man of the Year award.

Related: When Anthony Edwards Switches to Football He’s Playing Defense

Anthony Edwards wins second NBA MVP in Timberwolves history

Right now, “The Big Ticket” is the greatest Timberwolves player in franchise history. But as crazy as it sounds, Anthony Edwards may not be that far off, even though he’s just entering his fifth season. KG didn’t win his MVP award until his ninth season, but the Timberwolves were never among the league’s elite class until, suddenly, they were.

Meanwhile, this current era of Timberwolves is already among the top championship contenders in the NBA. Some are already saying Ant is the face, or future face of the NBA, but now it’s time to prove it. We all know how confident he is, never backing down from a challenge. Yet, now that he’s gotten a taste of coming so close to the playoffs, we only expect him to come back an even better competitor.

Now that KAT isn’t around as the secondary alpha wolf of this pack, there’s absolutely no question who has the keys to the franchise. Fans knew that all along, but for Ant, it had to be a bit odd grabbing the reigns from a more experienced former No. 1 pick who’s still an All-NBA talent. But now there’s nothing holding him back. If he wants to shoot 30 times a game, he will.

Don’t be surprised if Edwards takes yet another step in his development, grabbing more rebounds and dishing more assists, all while scoring more points thanks to a more consistent shot. It’s only a matter of time before the NBA realizes the league’s best player calls Minnesota home. It might even happen later this year when Edwards wins his first of possibly many MVP awards.

Related: If the Timberwolves Win it All, Anthony Edwards Says He’s Switching Sports… Seriously

Timberwolves set new franchise record in wins

On the surface, this may seem crazy. The Timberwolves’ all-time single season wins record was set in the magical 2003-04 season that saw the team win 58 games and reach the Western Conference Finals. Flip Saunders, Kevin Garnett, Sam Cassell, and Latrell Sprewell led an All-Star cast that looked well on their way to delivering the first championship in franchise history.

Of course, injuries got in the way, and the Timberwolves regressed back to the mean later on. Meanwhile, last year’s Timberwolves often looked like they’d have a chance to beat their all-time wins mark before injuries got in the way too.

Yet, there has to be a specific reason why the Timberwolves felt trading KAT for Randle + DiVincenzo would help them take a step forward. If the trade works out the way Tim Connelly planned, it might lead to a more balanced roster overall and one that helps the team win just more than 58 games, setting a new Timberwolves record.

Related: Nepotism Will Reportedly Be on Full Display in Timberwolves vs Lakers

Minnesota Timberwolves win NBA Finals, 4-1

You didn’t think we’d be able to project the Timberwolves to take a step back, did you? Who did this team lose? Towns? Yes, he’s a fantastic scorer, but we can’t all look ourselves squarely in the mirror and not admit there were some flaws in his game too, such as his propensity to force shots, commit offensive fouls, and often disappear on defense because he’s still complaining about a missed call on the other end of the floor.

Presumably, this team will be a lot more mature as they go through another season together. While there are wily veterans such as Mike Conley, Rudy Gobert, and even Tim Connelly’s lookalike in Joe Ingles, the core of this team is still scratching the surface of their potential.

Ant, McDaniels, and Reid are all 25 years old or younger, which means they’ve yet to reach their prime. Only now, there’s been another injection of youth, and some of these young pups can really play. Josh Minott, Luka Garza, and even Rob Dillingham all look like they’re ready to contribute to a winning season. Coach Finch remains one of the best coaches in the NBA. If there’s anyone who can push all the right buttons to maximize the potential of his rotation, it’s Finchy.

The Celtics are great, but they don’t have the same hunger in their stomachs as this starving pack of Wolves. This time, when the Minnesota Timberwolves get on the big stage again, Anthony Edwards and company won’t flinch; they’ll devour every opponent in their path.

• Minnesota Timberwolves defeat Boston Celtics in NBA Finals: 4-1

Related: Has Josh Minott Forced His Way into the Minnesota Timberwolves Rotation?

Then, there’s president of basketball operations, Tim Connelly, who will remain in charge for one more year, but could leave next offseason, depending on how the aforementioned ownership fight finishes.

Minnesota Timberwolves sign Chris Finch to contract extension

But on Monday, the Minnesota Timberwolves franchise locked up one of the most important parts of their future, outside of their 22-year-old superstar, Anthony Edwards, when they signed head coach Chris Finch to a four year contract extension that runs through the 2027-28 NBA season.

ESPN Sources: Minnesota Timberwolves coach Chris Finch has agreed on a four-year contract extension through the 2027-‘28 season. Finch led the franchise to the Western Conference Finals — his third straight postseason trip. pic.twitter.com/Y2MfEqYUN7

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 24, 2024

Related: Timberwolves Blocked from Trading Karl-Anthony Towns to Suns… and a Bunch of Other Teams

Chris Finch has 160 total wins, over four seasons as Timberwolves head coach, ranking him as the 2nd winningest coach in franchise history, behind the late, great Flip Saunders. Finchy’s .557 winning percentage, however, currently stands as the Wolves’ best ever, for a head coach. (Flip is 2nd, at .521).

Both PoBO Tim Connelly and Chris Finch gave statements, following his contract extension:

“I’d like to thank Glen, Becky, and the entire organization for their continued support and commitment to me and the team. I’m proud of the way we’ve been able to establish a great culture here with the Timberwolves and I look forward to continuing to lead this organization and make our fans proud.”  – Chris Finch

“Chris is a wonderful coach, and an even better person. We are thrilled that he is being rewarded with a well-earned extension. Under his guidance the team has improved every year, he’s the perfect leader for our organization.” – Tim Connelly