Minnesota Timberwolves' head coach Chris Finch achieves significant achievement for the franchise in their victory over the Golden State Warriors.
Firework Finch Lights Up Timberwolves' Playoff Run
Sizzling victories continue to shower down on the Minnesota Timberwolves under the leadership of head coach Chris Finch, who outshone the Golden State Warriors 117-93 in Game 2 of the 2025 Western Conference Semifinals of the NBA Playoffs.
This breathtaking win swelled Finch's playoff victory count to an impressive 17, tying the legendary Flip Saunders for the franchise record, as reported by The Athletic's Aaron Gleeman. Saunders, a trailblazer for the Timberwolves, orchestrated some of the team's most outstanding performances over the years, including their initial successful stint in the late '90s and early 2000s, propelling the team to eight playoff appearances with Kevin Garnett as their standout player.
A Leap forward for Finch and Timberwolves
Finch's astonishing achievement, particularly in comparison to Saunders' significant impact on the franchise, highlights the team's phenomenal growth under his guidance since his appointment in 2021. Last season, the Timberwolves snatched their best campaign since 2004, pinning their hopes on Anthony Edwards to drive their powerhouse playoff run.
This year, they eye even greater heights, aiming to reach the grand stage of the NBA Finals for the first time in the team's history. They've already bested the Los Angeles Lakers in the opening round of the playoffs, and now they set their sights on triumphant in the West Semis against the Warriors to secure back-to-back appearances in the West Finals.
In Game 2, five Timberwolves players registered double-digit scores. With 20 points, nine rebounds, and five assists, Edwards mesmerized fans. He wrapped up 6-of-13 overall shots, 2-of-4 from beyond the arc, and 6-of-8 free throws, further fueling speculation about his Superman-like abilities. Nickeil Alexander-Walker followed closely with 20 points and three assists. Jaden McDaniels dropped 16 points, while Naz Reid added 11 points and five assists to the winning effort.
The Timberwolves will target a 2-1 series lead when they go head-to-head with the Warriors in Game 3 on May 10. The clock for the anticipated Saturday night showdown will strike 8:30 p.m. ET.
Extras
- An intriguing back-and-forth unfolded as Mike Conley, a senior team colleague of Anthony Edwards, threw a humorous jab at teammate Julius Randle, while Randle responded to head coach Chris Finch's intense team talk with some colorful language[2][4].
- Draymond Green of the Warriors sternly denied being an "angry Black man," following recent remarks on race relations in the NBA[3].
- Chris Finch's 17 playoff victories, especially this season, underline the substantial progress of the Minnesota Timberwolves, surpassing the franchise record co-held by Flip Saunders.
- Next year, the Timberwolves aspire to surpass their achievements of 2025, reaching the NBA Finals for the first time in their history.
- In Game 3 of the Western Conference Semifinals, the Timberwolves will aim to secure a 2-1 series lead against the Golden State Warriors.
- Despite NBA controversy over race relations, Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors has denied being an "angry Black man."
