Timberwolves Roundup: Finch Fined $35K, Conley Set to Return, Edwards Talks Leadership, Taylor Welcomes Garnett Back
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MINNEAPOLIS — The NBA fined Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch $35,000 for using inappropriate language toward officials and for failing to exit the court promptly after being ejected during Friday’s game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the league announced Sunday.
Finch was tossed midway through the first quarter following complaints about uncalled fouls. According to multiple witnesses, several assistants and arena security personnel restrained him as he attempted to confront the referees. Finch later told reporters that both Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle were “grabbed and hit” on the possession that sparked his outburst.
The coach addressed the incident at Saturday’s practice. “I thought early on the tone was going in the wrong direction, and I wanted to change things,” Finch said, adding that he was pleased with how the team responded in his absence. The ejection was the second of his NBA career. Randle called the sideline storm “top tier,” noting Finch’s competitive nature.
Conley upgraded to available
Veteran guard Mike Conley, sidelined the past four games with right Achilles tendinopathy, has been cleared to play Sunday against the Milwaukee Bucks, the team confirmed.
Edwards on Olympic experience
In a video interview with Shams Charania of ESPN, Edwards discussed how representing Team USA at the 2024 Olympics improved his leadership skills. The 23-year-old guard said observing Stephen Curry’s work habits and interacting with veteran teammates taught him new ways to communicate. “Some guys you can be super hard on and some guys you’ve got to pull to the side,” Edwards explained.
Taylor pleased with Garnett’s return
Former majority owner Glen Taylor expressed satisfaction that Kevin Garnett is rejoining the organization as a team ambassador, despite the long-standing dispute that kept the Hall of Famer away. “I always thought he should be there,” Taylor said. “Overall, I like the guy, respect the guy, and I’m happy for him.”
Source: HoopsRumors
