Photo: New York Knicks/Twitter

The strong connection between Julius Randle and Wolves head coach Chris Finch, which originates from their time together with the New Orleans Pelicans, was a pivotal factor that made Minnesota feel confident in acquiring Randle after trading away Karl-Anthony Towns.

This bond is explored in detail by Chris Hine from The Minneapolis Star Tribune and Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic, who offer valuable insights into how their relationship could impact the Timberwolves’ success in the upcoming 2024/25 season.

Krawczynski highlights that Randle was a vocal supporter of Finch when the New York Knicks were in search of a new head coach back in 2020, showcasing the trust and respect Randle has for Finch’s coaching abilities.

“He just opened up my game and I became a really versatile player,” Randle reflected on his time under Finch in New Orleans, as noted by Hine. “I always say, playing there and even still to this point, that was the easiest my game ever felt playing under Finch.”

This sentiment underscores the positive impact Finch had on Randle’s development as a player, transforming him into a more dynamic and adaptable force on the court.

The familiarity between the two may foster a smooth transition for Randle in Minnesota, potentially leading to a more cohesive team dynamic and higher performance levels.

As the Timberwolves aim for greater heights in the upcoming season, the synergy between Randle and Finch will be critical in determining the team’s overall ceiling and effectiveness.