As the Minnesota Timberwolves prepare for the Western Conference Finals, head coach Chris Finch addressed reporters Saturday, offering insight into Julius Randle’s growth, Rudy Gobert’s adjustments, and the mindset driving the team’s postseason run.
Finch emphasized Randle’s defensive development, calling it the “most impressive growth” in the veteran forward’s game since their time together in New Orleans.
“He can execute a variety of coverages,” Finch said. “But really just his on-ball competitiveness and ability to contain is super high level right now.”
Finch confirmed that Randle is now a “plus defender,” pointing to a noticeable rise in effort and maturity on that side of the floor.
Asked whether Randle prefers defending bigs or perimeter players, Finch noted that the All-Star appears “comfortable in either situation,” and added that their defensive schemes are designed around individual strengths, not just game plans.
Finch attributed Randle’s improved discipline to his patience and understanding of defensive battles.
“He was trying to win everything with a block or steal all the time,” Finch said. “Now he’s done a better job of controlling his emotions… understanding you’re not going to win every single battle.”
The coach believes the forward turned a corner early in the 2024-25 season, especially as his offensive involvement increased.
“He’s gone from strength to strength in the playoffs,” Finch said. “Now he’s super solid. You know what you’re going to get every night.”
Finch also addressed Gobert’s role in Minnesota’s system, contrasting it with his time in Utah.
“We’ve struggled at times to maximize him offensively… but he still shows up,” Finch said. “He just flat out won’t let you lose.”
The head coach praised Gobert for embracing multidimensional coverages and staying team-focused despite reduced offensive touches and occasional drop in minutes.
Finch added that veteran Joe Ingles has been instrumental in the locker room, describing him as “everything for us in terms of maturity.”
He credited Ingles for mentoring both rookies and stars alike, and called him “an all-star in that capacity” for his unselfish leadership and competitive edge.
With Game 7 between Denver and Oklahoma City set to determine their next opponent, Finch said the Timberwolves are keeping preparation internal and practicing before the outcome is known.
“The team feels extremely focused,” Finch said. “Unbelievable energy… very businesslike—which is what you want.”
