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Minnesota Timberwolves’ Coach Chris Finch to Miss Start of Playoff Series Due to Knee Surgery
The Minnesota Timberwolves are heading into their second-round playoff series against defending champions Denver Nuggets with head coach Chris Finch sidelined due to an injury. Finch, who sustained a knee injury in a sideline collision with Timberwolves point guard Mike Conley, is set to undergo surgery to repair a ruptured right patellar tendon.
The surgery, scheduled for Wednesday, will leave Finch with only three days of recovery time before Game 1 in Denver. Typically, this type of procedure requires more immobilization time, and Finch is expected to rely on crutches during his recovery period. Given the constraints of the NBA sideline, it is uncertain whether Finch will be able to be present on the bench at the start of the series.
Assistant Coach Assumes Leadership Role
Following Finch’s exit during the Game 4 victory in Phoenix, Assistant Coach Micah Nori stepped up to lead the team. Nori previously took charge of the team in a game against Cleveland on March 8 when Finch was unavailable. The coaching staff, known for its strong sense of chemistry despite its short time together, is prepared to collectively fill the void left by Finch’s absence.
The incident occurred when Conley collided with Suns’ star Devin Booker near the boundary. Despite Conley’s attempt to cushion their fall, Finch suffered the impact, visibly in pain. Finch, who garnered recognition by finishing third in NBA Coach of the Year voting, boasts a solid coaching record with the Timberwolves, maintaining a 160-127 overall record in 3 1/2 years.
Having led the team to the playoffs in each of his three full seasons, Finch took over coaching duties in 2021 after the departure of Ryan Saunders. Prior to his role in Minnesota, Finch served as an assistant coach for teams such as Toronto, New Orleans, Denver, and Houston.
Upcoming Playoff Schedule
Denver Nuggets, led by Coach Mike Malone, will face the Timberwolves in the upcoming playoff series, renewing their rivalry from last season’s playoffs. The series is set to begin with Game 1 on Saturday, followed by Game 2 on Monday. After a three-day break, the series will resume with Game 3 in Minnesota on May 10.
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