Timberwolves Coach Chris Finch Pokes Fun at Lakers’ JJ Redick During Podcast Appearance
SLUG: timberwolves-coach-chris-finch-pokes-fun-at-lakers-jj-redick-during-podcast-appearance
CONTENT:
During a live recording of ESPN analyst Zach Lowe’s podcast on Nov. 14, 2025, Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch made a light-hearted remark aimed at Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick and the growing number of sports podcasters.
“I bet three-quarters of these people are gonna go home and do a podcast tonight,” Finch said. “I mean, it’ll qualify you to coach the Lakers.” The comment drew laughter from the audience and quickly circulated on social media.
Connection Between Finch and Redick
Finch and Redick worked together with the New Orleans Pelicans from 2019 to 2021, when Finch was an assistant coach and Redick was nearing the end of his playing career. Their prior relationship suggests the exchange was friendly banter rather than genuine criticism.
Redick’s First Season on the Sideline
The Lakers hired Redick ahead of the 2024-25 season despite his lack of coaching experience. He guided Los Angeles to the playoffs after a midseason roster overhaul that brought in Luka Doncic, transforming the team’s defensive identity. In the first round, the Timberwolves eliminated the Lakers in five games, with Finch’s squad prevailing.
Current Season Results
The Western Conference rivals have already met twice in 2025-26, with Los Angeles winning both matchups. Overall, the Lakers sit at 8-4 after a lopsided loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night. Redick acknowledged postgame that his team “needs to get some things fixed” despite the solid record.
Source: Lakers Nation
