Chris Finch Receives Four-Year Contract Extension
After leading the Minnesota Timberwolves to a remarkable 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. The 56 wins rank as the second-best regular-season mark in franchise history, an achievement that has fueled optimism throughout the organization. Notably, the Timberwolves have never made it to the NBA Finals, but there is a growing sense that Finch might be the coach to break that barrier.
Finch's Impact Since Joining in 2020-21
Finch was hired during the 2020-21 season. Since his arrival, the 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 NBA, a significant turnaround for a team that had previously struggled on that end of the floor. Much of this success is attributed to Finch's tactical acumen and ability to maximize the team's defensive potential.
Key Role of Team Management
While Finch deserves substantial credit, General Manager Tim Connelly also played a critical role in the team’s transformation. The trade that brought in Rudy Gobert was instrumental in anchoring the Timberwolves' top-tier defense. In addition, the acquisition of Mike Conley proved to be a masterstroke, further solidifying the team's backcourt and providing veteran leadership. These moves prepared the Wolves to face and ultimately eliminate the Denver Nuggets in the second round of the playoffs.
Challenges and Triumphs
Despite the strides made, Finch's journey with the Timberwolves hasn't been without challenges. Gobert's first season with the team did not go as smoothly as planned, and there has been ongoing turmoil concerning the franchise's ownership situation. However, Finch has managed to keep the team focused and unaffected on the court, a testament to his leadership skills.
Moreover, Finch's coaching prowess has been evident in individual player developments. Notably, he has developed Anthony Edwards into a bona fide superstar and successfully convinced Karl-Anthony Towns to embrace a secondary role, thereby fostering a more balanced team dynamic.
Context and Caution
While the Timberwolves' recent success is promising, history offers a note of caution. The Atlanta Hawks, for instance, made the Conference Finals in 2021 and subsequently rewarded Nate McMillan with a four-year contract. However, the Hawks failed to make it past the first round of the playoffs in the following three seasons. This serves as a reminder that sustaining success in the NBA is challenging, particularly in the incredibly competitive Western Conference.
Nonetheless, the Timberwolves faithful are hopeful that Finch can guide the team to new heights. There’s a growing belief within the organization that Finch is steering Minnesota's ship in the right direction. The upcoming seasons will reveal whether the Timberwolves can build on their current momentum and achieve sustained success.
Conclusion
According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, "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." This decision underscores the organization's confidence in Finch’s ability to continue his transformative work. As the Timberwolves gear up for the new season, all eyes will be on how Finch and his squad navigate the challenges ahead, with the ultimate goal of making their first-ever appearance in the NBA Finals.