Finch on Young Wolves: Minutes are Earned, Not Given

Minnesota Timberwolves coach Chris Finch is navigating player rotations amidst team injuries and a competitive 16-9 record. He recently clarified his approach to integrating young players like Terrence Shannon Jr. and Rob Dillingham into consistent playing time, emphasizing that minutes are earned based on performance rather than simply for development.

Finch explained that the team's depth, with several players capable of significant minutes, makes it challenging to assign extended roles to those at the end of the rotation. He urged players to 'crush' their allotted minutes, demonstrating readiness for more responsibility. This strategy acknowledges that development involves overcoming inconsistencies, a normal part of a player's second year.

As injuries to key players like Anthony Edwards and Mike Conley continue to impact lineups, opportunities arise for younger talent. However, Finch reiterated that earning consistent playing time requires proving reliability and impact in every shift, a challenge he believes ultimately strengthens the players and the team in the long run.