Chris Finch has become one of the most divisive people among Minnesota Timberwolves fans this season. Between questionable rotations and a lack of offensive structure, I understand some of these criticisms. As the Wolves have looked disconnected throughout the season, I've wondered if Finch's voice might be wearing out in the locker room, which to me is a more grave concern than any strategic gripes. Â
To this date, we have not gotten any credible reporting that Finch's job is in jeopardy or that there's a disconnect between him and the team. Nevertheless, Jake Fischer of The Stein Line recently reported that the number of coaching changes could stray into double digits this offseason.
"Now it's my turn to add to his reporting with lots more from the coaching carousel touching on numerous teams, with some experts in the field saying that it won't be surprising if the number of coaching changes ultimately strays into double digits," Fischer wrote.
Fischer further noted that per his source there could be eight to 12 coaching changes. He explicitly listed Milwaukee's Doc Rivers, Sacramento's Doug Christie, Orlando's Jamahl Mosley, and Washington's Brian Keefe as coaches who could be on the hot seat. Additionally, he noted that interim coaches James Borrego of the Pelicans and Tiago Splitter of the Trail Blazers might not land a full-time job with their respective teams.Â
While Finch's name isn't one that's officially on the hot seat, if Fischer is right that a plethora of teams will make coaching changes, the Wolves could very well be one of them.Â
It wouldn't be a total surprise if Chris Finch is fired
Fischer's reporting is also supported by Marc Stein, who previously reported that the coaching carousel will be spinning at top speed this spring. The Wolves entered the season with championship aspirations. However, with each passing day, the most likely outcome appears to be a first-round exit at the hands of the rival Denver Nuggets.Â
Fair or not, coaches often take the brunt of the blame in the modern NBA. Tim Connelly has never been adverse to change, and he might opt to shake up the coaching staff, especially if things get ugly in the playoffs.Â
To be clear, Finch is still a great coach (by all accounts the best in Timberwolves history), and he'd likely have a choice of any job on the market. However, sometimes it's time for a change, and a coach's voice often wears out in the locker room.
Whether you are fond of Finch or not, it's hard to argue that his job is completely secure.Â
Micah Nori's presence is impossible to ignore. The 52-year-old is one of the most respected assistant coaches in the league, and he's gotten plenty of head coaching interviews in recent years. Fischer noted that Nori will likely be looked at once again for whatever jobs become open.
If the Wolves believe that the Finch-era has run its course, having a natural in-house replacement could further increase the possibility of a coaching change.Â
As of now, we don't know if Finch's job is truly in jeopardy. Regardless, with such a significant amount of coaching changes expected and the Wolves' erratic season, I don't think anybody would be shocked if changes are on the horizon.