Chris Finch Calls for Stronger Defense from Timberwolves Stars

The Minnesota Timberwolves are facing a defensive crisis following their recent loss to the Denver Nuggets. Head coach Chris Finch challenged key players in the locker room after the game, demanding more from their defensive unit. He specifically called out Jaden McDaniels and Rudy Gobert, stating, “We need more from our All-Defensive guys to set the tone.”

The Timberwolves entered the game at the Target Center with a strong start, leading by eight points at halftime. However, the third quarter proved catastrophic as the Nuggets surged with a remarkable 45-point performance, including 23 points from Jamal Murray. Denver finished the quarter shooting 67% from the field and did not commit a single turnover. Finch expressed his frustration, saying, “No defense. Nothing at the rim. Kept turning corners on us, getting downhill.”

Once regarded as a formidable defensive team in the league, the Timberwolves now find themselves struggling. Currently, they rank fourth-worst in the NBA, allowing an alarming average of 119.8 points per 100 possessions. For context, this figure was a much healthier 108.4 during the previous season. The decline in defensive performance has been stark and troubling, especially considering the team’s commitment to returning to its defensive roots during training camp.

After the game, veteran guard Mike Conley acknowledged the team’s effort but pointed to “too many breakdowns” as a significant issue. Miscommunication plagued the Timberwolves, leading to numerous open shot opportunities for the Nuggets. “We have to do things as a unit. All five guys have to be in the same mindset and connected,” he said, emphasizing the need for unity in their defensive strategy.

Conley further noted the importance of accountability, stating, “It starts with us. We need to take on challenges individually to avoid relying too heavily on help defense.” This sentiment was echoed by Gobert, who pointed out that the team’s defensive mindset should begin with their top players. He stressed, “When Jaden and whoever is guarding the ball is pressuring the ball, and when I’m being a monster in the paint, it sets the tone for everybody else.”

Despite their talent, the Timberwolves are struggling to match their previous defensive intensity. Without key contributors like Anthony Edwards and Jaylen Clark, who are sidelined due to injuries, the team’s depth is being tested. McDaniels, who is expected to take on a larger defensive role, acknowledged that their current approach is not working, stating, “It’s obviously not working.”

Finch’s concerns about the team’s inconsistency were palpable, as he admitted he is “very concerned” about their performance. Conley echoed this, indicating that while the team has enough talent to defend effectively, they need to correct fundamental issues. “It’s just kind of more baffling than it is a real issue. Nonetheless, it’s something that we have to correct,” he said.

As the Timberwolves look ahead, their focus must shift towards rebuilding their defensive identity. Finch’s challenge to McDaniels and Gobert represents a crucial moment for the team. If they are to regain their status as a defensive force in the NBA, it will require a collective effort and renewed commitment from all players.

Gobert emphasized the critical nature of this moment: “It’s got to be what matters more than anything, more than how many points we score.” The Timberwolves’ ability to adapt and respond to these challenges will be vital as they navigate the early part of the season.