Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch cited late-game struggles and turnovers as key factors in Minnesota’s 117-112 overtime loss to the Sacramento Kings Monday at Golden 1 Center.
inch noted, “Back-to-back games where it’s really tough down the stretch to um to close it out…inability to rebound in the clutch certainly hurt us tonight, too. Obviously turnovers, bunch of silly ones, too, in transition.”
Finch highlighted missed opportunities in the final minutes of regulation, referencing multiple possessions where Minnesota could have grown its lead. “We had three chances right there…couldn’t grow the lead and that kind of hurt us,” he said, pointing to missed kick-outs and contested layups that allowed Sacramento to tie the game.
The Timberwolves’ offensive rhythm also concerned Finch, who said the team has struggled to find consistency compared to earlier in the season. “We’re struggling right now to find a good rhythm offensively all around…a lot of things we were doing then are missing now,” he explained. Finch added that the offense had been more effective earlier in the game, but late possessions did not generate the same separation.
Finch also addressed defensive execution, particularly Sacramento’s frontcourt duo of Achiuwa and Murray. “They did a good job of…keeping everybody in front and making us play on the perimeter,” he said. He acknowledged Keegan Murray’s impact in the game: “He played a complete game last night. Hit a big shot down the stretch…sure, they’re excited to have him back and he paid dividends tonight for them.”
Despite Anthony Edwards’ 43-point performance, the Timberwolves were unable to convert in crucial moments, including a missed potential game-winning jumper at the end of regulation. Finch emphasized that offensive balance and timely execution are areas Minnesota must improve.
The Timberwolves (10-7) face the Oklahoma City Thunder in an NBA Cup matchup Wednesday, aiming to rebound after consecutive late-game collapses. Sacramento (5-13) will host the Phoenix Suns, looking to build on their back-to-back wins following an eight-game losing streak.
