Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch spoke candidly with reporters ahead of Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals, offering insight into how his team has evolved during the postseason.
While the opponent had not yet been determined, Finch emphasized that playoff basketball is a different game entirely, citing increased physicality as a major shift from the regular season.
“I would say it’s significant,” Finch said. “Physicality is way up… it feels a little bit more like it’s under control, appropriate.”
He noted that, despite tighter defense, pace has not drastically slowed, challenging the narrative that postseason play is purely a half-court battle.
“I still think the game is fast,” Finch explained. “More so now because defense has stiffened, if you will.”
When asked whether regular season performance can accurately forecast playoff success, Finch acknowledged the importance of experience, especially in recognizing early signs of weakness.
“If you don’t have those things, and as you go through a regular season, they might be red flags for you,” he said.
Finch praised the team’s business-like demeanor heading into the conference finals, comparing it favorably to last year’s emotional rollercoaster against Denver.
“You can already sense a much more business-like approach with our guys,” Finch said. “That’s super relevant.”
He credited Anthony Edwards’ development as a factor in that shift, pointing to the 23-year-old’s growing composure and strategic awareness.
“It just feels like he has a little bit more patience during a series,” Finch said. “Trusting the right play, using the defense against itself.”
Finch also commended Edwards for maintaining control and avoiding technical fouls during high-stakes games.
“For the most part, he’s kept a lot of his emotions under control,” he said.
Veteran guard Mike Conley drew praise as well, with Finch calling him “unflappable,” noting he’s never had a meltdown in practice and rarely shows frustration during games.
On the topic of communication with referees, Finch observed that players and officials have maintained a healthier dialogue throughout the playoffs.
“They know what’s at stake for everybody out there,” Finch added. “A lot more healthy dialogue going on.”
Asked about team chemistry, Finch said the group’s selflessness has improved over the season, with players buying into the team’s rotation and trusting each other.
“There was just a recognition that coming down the stretch those things had to be put down,” he said.
Finch also highlighted the leadership of Jordan McLaughlin, who has been impactful despite not playing, describing him as “another coach on the floor, coach off the floor.”
As the Timberwolves prepare to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder, Finch’s remarks reflect a team that has not only grown in performance but also in discipline and maturity.
“We still got eight more wins to achieve our ultimate goal,” he said. “We’re only halfway there.”
