2 Obvious, 2 subtle moves Chris Finch must make to turn the Wolves into title favorites
By Austin McGee
Subtle: Decide on a 9th rotation player
As of now, the starters are set with Conley Jr., Edwards, McDaniels, Anderson, and Gobert. The next three are as follows: Reid, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Monte Morris. However, the last rotation spot is up for grabs.
Since signing veteran forward T.J. Warren to a 10-day contract, the Wolves have used Warren as the proverbial ninth man. In four games for Minnesota, the 6-foot-8 wing has averaged 4.8 points while shooting 47.4 percent from the floor.
Alas, Warren's 10-day contract has expired and he's yet to re-sign. It's possible Minnesota re-ups Warren for another 10 days before signing him through the rest of the season. Nonetheless, there are other viable options on the free agent market.
Another veteran forward remains after being bought out by the San Antonio Spurs in late February. The Wolves reportedly once coveted Marcus Morris Sr., even being linked to signing him in earlier last month. He's a career 12.1 point per game scorer who can also knock down 3-pointers at a near-40 percent clip.
Although it's appearing unlikely the Wolves will poach Morris Sr., as he's expected to sign elsewhere. Thus, bringing back Warren seems the most plausible. Without a true difference-maker, other than the aforementioned nine rotation players, Warren's spot feels relatively safe.
If not Warren, Minnesota could play Jordan McLaughlin, Wendell Moore Jr., Leonard Miller, Josh Minott, Luka Garza, or Daishen Nix. However, five of the six players listed have appeared in less than 100 NBA games—ruling them out as the pressure intensifies.
McLaughlin remains, but he's better suited as a third-string guard. Per Cleaning the Glass, his defensive impact has been stellar, but he leaves much to be desired offensively. With both Conley Jr. and Morris playing heavy minutes, it's unlikely the fifth-year guard receives much playing time.