Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch is set to undergo surgery on Wednesday to repair a right patellar tendon, raising uncertainty about his availability for the team’s Western Conference semifinal series against the Denver Nuggets.
Sources reveal that it’s unclear whether Finch will be able to coach from the bench for the opening games, as his early rehabilitation will require his right leg to be immobilized in a brace.
Assistant coach Micah Nori is poised to take over coaching duties for Game 1 on Saturday, with Finch potentially communicating with the team from the locker room.
The incident leading to Finch’s injury occurred during the final moments of a Game 4 victory against the Phoenix Suns, when Timberwolves guard Mike Conley Jr. collided with him along the sideline.
Despite the setback, the Timberwolves are gearing up to face the defending champion Nuggets, who hold the second seed in the Western Conference.
Finch’s injury comes at a crucial time for the Timberwolves, who just clinched their first playoff series victory in 20 years under his leadership. With Finch finishing third in the NBA’s Coach of the Year voting, his absence on the sidelines could pose a significant challenge for the team.
Assistant coach Micah Nori, who has been with Finch for three seasons in Minnesota, is well-prepared to step into a leadership role if needed. Nori brings valuable experience from previous coaching stints with teams like the Detroit Pistons, Denver Nuggets, Sacramento Kings, and Toronto Raptors.
Barring any complications from the surgery, sources suggest that Finch should be able to join the team in Denver for Game 1, providing support and guidance as they set on their playoff journey. Despite the adversity, the Timberwolves remain focused on their goal of advancing further in the postseason.
