In Julius Randle's two seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves, head coach Chris Finch has generally been supportive of the three-time All-Star. However, Friday's loss to Portland brought a rare public critique from Finch.
With the Wolves leading 104-103 and just 35 seconds left, they surrendered two offensive rebounds, culminating in a Jerami Grant three-pointer that sealed the game for the Blazers. The Wolves gave up a staggering 18 offensive boards, with Randle contributing only five rebounds, three of which were defensive, while averaging a career-low 6.8 rebounds per game.
Finch didn't hold back in his post-game comments. "All we have to do is get a rebound, and we can’t," he expressed.
"There’s a delay in our reactions. It’s been that way for a while, and it’s just not good enough."
Finch highlighted the need for more rebounding support, pointing out that while Ayo Dosunmu and Rudy Gobert did their part, Randle’s three defensive rebounds fell short of expectations. "It’s just not good enough," Finch emphasized.
Despite their close relationship, Finch’s public criticism of Randle underscores the urgency as the Wolves vie for playoff positioning. Randle, for his part, agreed with his coach's assessment.
"Sometimes it’s not tactical," he said. "We just gotta go get the ball.
They’re quicker to the ball than us right now."
Looking ahead, the Wolves are focused on getting Gobert more involved offensively, especially as they approach the postseason. Gobert's struggles with handling passes have at times led teammates to overlook him, but Finch insists on persistence.
"I tell them to keep throwing it," Finch remarked. "It pays off more than not.
We want him to catch it, but I’ll take some turnovers if we’re trying to make the right play."
In the locker room, Anthony Edwards praised Mike Conley, Kyle Anderson, and newcomer Ayo Dosunmu for their roles as "connectors." Donte DiVincenzo offered a straightforward take on Conley and Anderson's influence.
"They’re mature adults," he stated. "They know how to handle ups and downs, and that steadiness helps everyone during tough moments."
Meanwhile, key reserve Naz Reid missed Friday’s game due to a right ankle sprain and is questionable for Sunday’s matchup in Boston. The Wolves will be hoping for his quick return as they continue to navigate a critical stretch of the season.