Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch credited a focused mindset and improved spacing after his team’s dominant 117-93 victory over the Golden State Warriors in Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinals.
Speaking postgame, Finch said the Timberwolves “looked a lot more like ourselves” and pointed to the opening stretch — a 13-0 run — as a tone-setter that dictated the rest of the night.
“It was exactly the response that we needed,” Finch said when asked about the team’s bounce back after a poor Game 1.
Finch emphasized that defense will continue to play a defining role in the series, noting that both teams are “really committed” on that end of the floor.
He stressed the importance of eliminating easy scoring chances and said Minnesota is still working through some of the Warriors’ offensive actions as the series evolves.
When the Warriors cut the lead to seven in the third quarter, Finch used a timeout to halt momentum and address a string of turnovers and lapses in communication.
“Just real sloppy turnovers,” he said. “Guys were frustrated, but we refocused pretty quickly.”
Julius Randle’s playmaking — 10 assists through three quarters — drew praise from Finch, who said the forward’s balanced approach elevated the entire offense.
“Great all-around game from him — just what we needed,” Finch said. “We generated really good shots, and that’s the key.”
Anthony Edwards scored 20 points and returned to action after an early injury scare, which Finch admitted had him concerned.
“I was really planning on not seeing him the rest of the game,” the coach revealed, crediting Edwards’ athleticism for enabling a quick recovery.
Finch also highlighted Edwards’ ability to stay patient under defensive pressure, praising his decision-making despite multiple coverages thrown at him.
“He stayed aggressive getting downhill… shot the ball well when it came to him,” Finch said.
Minnesota’s bench provided 40 points, with Nickeil Alexander-Walker scoring 20 in a strong response to a pregame challenge from the coaching staff.
“Our bench was massive,” Finch stated. “When it bears out like this, it makes us that much tougher.”
Finch repeatedly returned to the importance of floor spacing, which he called the main factor in creating open looks and better rhythm.
On the team’s drive-and-kick action, Finch said multiple kick-outs were necessary against Golden State’s fast-reacting defense.
“They rotate so well… their fly-around game is amongst the best in the league,” Finch noted.
Minnesota evened the series 1-1 heading into Game 3 on Saturday in San Francisco.
