Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch lauded his team’s performance following a 139-106 rout of the Bucks on Tuesday. “Phenomenal effort by our guys…pace, physicality, quickness of decision-making, super sharp, all over the place,” Finch said.
Finch emphasized the team’s execution despite missing Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert. “We found an early groove on offense and never really let up,” he noted, highlighting Julius Randle’s role. “Julius was awesome setting the tone again on Giannis.”
The coach singled out rookies and bench players who stepped up. “The effort we got from Joan off the bench was spectacular…Bones, my God, again a plus-41 rating…really proud of it,” Finch said. He credited Beringer’s hustle and energy, adding, “Just energy plays, hustle plays, challenged everything…loose balls, everything at the rim was contested.”
Finch stressed the value of experience and preparation. “A lot of accomplished guys…we talked about it pregame. It was fun to watch us play tonight,” he said, pointing to the team’s composure and execution.
He also praised the Timberwolves’ ball movement and decision-making. “There were six assists in the first seven makes…the ball really kept moving. Julius was spectacular, played a simple, clean game…took on the physicality but didn’t overcommit,” Finch explained.
The coach noted the team’s focus and collective belief. “The belief’s been there all year…maintaining focus and applying ourselves to that focus…that’s been the problem earlier in the season,” he said. Finch credited Jaden McDaniels and Bones Hyland for their scoring and aggression. “We needed him to bring a little more production, more purpose…he really responded today,” he said.
Minnesota achieved the win without Edwards and Gobert, shooting 59.8% from the field and hitting 22 three-pointers. Julius Randle led with 29 points, while Bones Hyland added 23 off the bench, and Naz Reid contributed 19 points. Rookie Joan Beringer recorded career highs with 13 points, five rebounds, and 30 minutes.
The Timberwolves’ 139 points marked the highest allowed by Milwaukee this season, as the Bucks fell to 17-23. The win improved Minnesota to 27-14, their sixth in seven games, highlighting depth and efficiency even without key starters.
Finch concluded by emphasizing development and sustainability. “Step by step…since draft night we’ve long believed in this kid…this is just the beginning,” he said of Beringer.
