In modified terms, Chris Finch underscores resilience as a key factor for the Timberwolves' return to the Western Conference Finals.
Unleashing the Wolves:
The Minnesota Timberwolves keep shocking the critics. Despite many doubting their move to swap Karl-Anthony Towns for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo, the Timberwolves are making a splash by advancing to the Western Conference Finals after subduing the short-handed Golden State Warriors in Game 5, 121-110.
Last season, the Timberwolves shined; they were one of the league's favorites, holding a win-loss record of 56 games and even ousting the Denver Nuggets in the second round of the playoffs. However, they started the year like a pale echo of their former selves. But under head coach Chris Finch, they've been clawing their way back, his patience really paying off.
"Everyone's in a rush. Everyone wants the team to be great immediately. But with a new squad, you've gotta let it gel," Finch declared during his post-game press conference, via Star Tribune Sports on X (formerly Twitter).
Finch has constantly pushed the Timberwolves, fanning the flames under them by occasionally reminding them that last season'sWestern Conference Finals wasn't just a one-off performance.
"We set the bar high for ourselves from the get-go. Were we a mere playoff team, or a genuine force to be reckoned with? Proving ourselves was our mission, and boy, did we endure our fair share of trials," Finch added.
Dwyane Wade's scorching 2-word message to Jimmy Butler during the Warriors' Game 5 loss
Timberwolves' Anthony Edwards, Julius Randle share handshake, embrace following Game 5 victory
Even Steve Kerr is amazed by the Timberwolves' Western Conference supremacy
Charles Barkley questions if ‘three old guys’ can keep up in the West
Julius Randle reinventing himself with the Timberwolves
Julius Randle's playoff resume isn't without stains. In 2021, Randle shot just 29.8% from the field as the Knicks succumbed to the Atlanta Hawks, and in 2023, he struggled to shine behind Jalen Brunson as the Knicks' star offensive player.
However, with the Timberwolves, Randle has been reborn. He's been a headache for the Warriors' defense, averaging 25.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 7.4 assists, with shooting stats of 53/30/96. Perhaps the Timberwolves knew what they were doing when they made Randle their main trade asset in the deal that handed the Knicks Karl-Anthony Towns.
"In this impressive showing, the Minnesota Timberwolves, under the guidance of Coach Chris Finch, are not only challenging the NBA's elite but have secured a spot in the NBA Playoffs, aiming to build upon last season's Western Conference Finals appearance."
"Julius Randle, following his adjustment to the Timberwolves, has been performing exceptionally well, averaging impressive stats of 25.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 7.4 assists, a striking contrast to his previous playoff struggles."
