Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch described the decision to remove Mike Conley from the rotation as one of the hardest choices of his coaching career.
Speaking to Dane Moore on Tuesday, Finch said, “Particularly with who he is as a person and a professional, and everything that he’s done for us. Feels like a crime against humanity.”
Conley, 38, returned to the Timberwolves on February 17 after clearing waivers following a brief stint with the Charlotte Hornets. He had been part of a three-team trade involving the Chicago Bulls and Detroit Pistons earlier that month.
This season, Conley has appeared in 47 games, averaging 17.8 minutes, 4.1 points, 2.9 assists, and shooting 31.1% from three-point range. His leadership remains valued in the locker room despite the limited court time.
The Timberwolves are navigating the season with key contributors like Anthony Edwards, who is averaging 29.5 points and 5.1 rebounds over 58 games, and Julius Randle, posting 21.0 points and 6.8 rebounds per contest.
The decision comes amid Minnesota’s push to solidify their playoff positioning in the competitive Western Conference, where they currently hold a 44-28 record.
Conley’s career has included stints with the Memphis Grizzlies and Utah Jazz before joining Minnesota, earning respect for his consistent playmaking and leadership.
