After a landmark season in which he guided the Minnesota Timberwolves to an impressive 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.
Historic Achievement
This stellar performance ranks as the second-best regular-season mark in franchise history, underscoring Finch's exceptional leadership capabilities. Although the Minnesota Timberwolves have yet to reach the NBA Finals, the air of optimism around the organization is palpable.
Turning Point
Finch was hired during the 2020-21 season, and since then, the Wolves have been a top contender in the league, consistently ranking in the top 10 in net rating, defensive rating, and victories. Last season was no exception, as Minnesota showcased one of the best defensive units in the NBA.
Integral Contributions
General Manager Tim Connelly deserves significant credit for this transformation. His strategic moves, including the acquisition of Rudy Gobert and Mike Conley, have been crucial. Gobert's presence anchored the team's top-tier defense, preparing them to face and eventually eliminate the Denver Nuggets in the second round of the playoffs. Bringing in Conley proved to be a masterstroke, further solidifying the team's roster.
Challenges and Triumphs
Despite an ongoing ownership turmoil, Finch has managed to keep the team focused on the court. Gobert's first season with the team did not go as smoothly as planned, but Finch has navigated these challenges admirably. Under his guidance, Anthony Edwards has developed into a bona fide superstar, and Karl-Anthony Towns has been successfully convinced to embrace a secondary role.
Comparisons and Cautionary Tales
There's a sense of cautious optimism, considering the fate of the Atlanta Hawks after their 2021 Conference Finals appearance. The Hawks rewarded Nate McMillan with a four-year contract, only to see the team fail to advance past the first round of the playoffs in the subsequent three seasons. The Timberwolves must tread carefully to avoid a similar fate, but there is a strong belief that Finch is steering Minnesota's ship in the right direction.
Outlook
As the Timberwolves prepare for the upcoming season, their strong defense will be crucial in navigating the incredibly competitive Western Conference. Only time will tell if their success can be sustained, but the faithful remain hopeful that Finch can guide the team to new heights. With his leadership and the team's solid foundation, there's ample reason to believe that Finch's tenure could mark the beginning of a new era for the Timberwolves.
"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.