Amid a five-game losing streak, things seem bleak for the Minnesota Timberwolves. Luckily, the trade deadline is right around the corner, and with a crafty move from Tim Connelly, the Wolves could be primed to get back on track and become clear contenders again.
However, what if the Wolves' problems go beyond roster construction? I think this is a fair question. Even with a lack of a high-quality point guard and poor depth, the Wolves shouldn't be losing some of these games.
The first two losses of the five-game skid are understandable; they came against good teams (the Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs), and both games came with the caveat of injuries. However, losses to the Utah Jazz, Chicago Bulls, and getting blown out by the Golden State Warriors are a truly concerning stretch.
Oftentimes, when the Wolves lose, it's ugly, which either involves blown late-game leads or playing with absolutely no energy on both sides of the ball. Of course, roster construction plays a key role in these struggles. Nevertheless, you have to wonder if Chris Finch's voice is wearing out in the locker room.
There haven't been any reports of this or comments against Finch from the players. Yet when energy and mental mistakes are consistent issues at some point, the coach has to take some of the blame for this.
Finch has played a role in the Wolves' struggles
Finch has been the Wolves coach since 2021. With back-to-back conference finals runs and a 56.9 winning percentage, Finch is by all accounts the franchise's most accomplished head coach. Still, the NBA is a what have you done for me lately league. The Denver Nuggets, for instance, fired Michael Malone last April after he won a championship in 2023.
The Timberwolves' defensive inconsistencies have been a frustrating problem. Despite having a top 10 defense overall and having an all-around talented defensive group, the Wolves rank 22nd in defensive rating over the past two and a half weeks. Poor energy, defensive habits (frequent ball-watching), and attention to detail have been key problems all season long.
I'm not saying that the Wolves will or should fire Finch immediately -- I defended him earlier in the season. However, it's clear that his coaching has played a role in the Wolves' recent struggles and season-long inconsistencies. If these problems persist, the Wolves may have no choice but to move on from Finch.
Beyond the team's lack of attention to detail and constant defensive lapses, Finch's offense lacks creativity. As such, on nights where Anthony Edwards doesn't go supernova and/or the supporting cast doesn't play up to their standards, the Wolves often seem lost. It's not his style, but Finch needs to implement more structure to get the Wolves easier shots.
Throughout the season, Finch's rotations have (rightfully) been criticized. His unrelenting loyalty to Mike Conley is perhaps the biggest point of criticism. Notably, since the turn of the calendar, Conley is averaging 16.6 minutes and 3.8 points on 30 percent shooting from the field. Likewise, the Wolves clearly need a true backup center, and Joan Beringer has thrived against quality opponents (the Bucks and Spurs). Regardless, Finch still refuses to play him when the Wolves are healthy.
Finch's questionable rotations are just part of the equation. My larger point is that Finch must take some level of the blame for the Wolves' struggles, and his future with the team shouldn't be guaranteed.