Running a 10-man rotation in the playoffs isn't sustainable for most teams. Like many coaches, Chris Finch typically runs an eight-man rotation in the playoffs, but in Game 1's loss to the Denver Nuggets, Finch opted to go 10 deep. In fairness, Bones Hyland and Kyle Anderson combined for just 12 minutes. Thus, it seems likely that at least one of them will be cut from the Minnesota Timberwolves' rotation soon enough.
Nevertheless, choosing who to play between Mike Conley, Hyland, and Anderson is a tough call. As it stands, the Wolves need both bench scoring and more playmaking. In Game 1, Hyland struggled in his limited minutes, but could provide the Wolves with the bench scoring that they need. At the same time, the Wolves' ball movement was putrid on Saturday, which increases the need to play Conley and/or Anderson.
What Finch prioritizes for the rest of the series will be something worth monitoring.
If the Timberwolves cut their rotation down to eight players, it's not an easy call who to cut
The debate mainly comes down to Hyland and Conley. Frankly, despite his struggles, I was a bit surprised to see Hyland play just five minutes on Saturday. He has been one of the Wolves' most consistent bench scorers all season long and can heat up quickly. The Wolves recorded just 105 points, and their offense could have used a spark. Bones was 0-of-3 in his limited minutes but didn't take any bad shots.
I understand the risks of playing two smaller guards in a playoff setting. Regardless, Minnesota could really benefit from Hyland's skill set if his shot starts falling.
The case for Conley to play is centered around his immense experience and steady decision-making. He has undeniably taken a step back as a scorer and self-creator this season, but his basketball IQ remains off the charts. Conley immediately drew a charge upon entering the game, and he did a great job of organizing the offense. This stuff matters in the playoffs.
Conley's playmaking and ability to orchestrate the offense are highly valuable in a playoff setting, especially as the Wolves' offense can often revert to isolation basketball. Still, Conley won't provide much as a scorer, which could hurt a struggling Wolves' offense.
Given Finch's affinity for Conley, I fully expect him to remain in the rotation -- but it shouldn't be a no-brainer decision.
And what about Anderson? He can also help the Wolves' ball movement and give them an extra defender to throw at Nikola Jokic. With Naz Reid struggling, it could make sense to give another forward some burn off the bench. However, his shooting and scoring are limited.
Unless Finch leans into a nine-man rotation, it's fair to expect that Anderson gets cut from the rotation. Again, though, I'd be wary of calling this an easy decision, given the Wolves' need for extra defense and playmaking.
Overall, it's unclear who will put the Wolves in the best position to comeback in the series.
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