Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch pointed to defensive lapses as a key factor in Monday’s 137-128 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. “We struggled with all the movement and the close out contain in the first half in particular,” Finch said.
The coach also noted the impact of fouls late in the game. “We gave them eight straight free throws when we got to a four-point game,” he added, highlighting how Memphis preserved its lead.
Finch addressed competitiveness and accountability. “It’s on them. They’ve got to come in, put the work on. It can’t be a sometimes thing,” he said regarding his players’ effort throughout the game.
On the Timberwolves’ fourth-quarter performance, Finch acknowledged defensive breakdowns. “We didn’t hold them under 30 at one point in the game and no quarter were they under 30. So, defense wasn’t there tonight like we needed it to be.”
Jaren Jackson Jr.’s presence for Memphis was another challenge. “He does a great job of getting to the free throw line. He’s a tough cover. He can make shots at all ranges, post you, and if you switch, he can take you outside,” Finch said.
Finch singled out Jaden McDaniels for his offensive impact. “Jaden was a positive in this game. He keeps making shots at a high level. Offense, not worried about it. Comes from wherever it comes from,” he noted.
Defensive execution issues were compounded by poor rotations and physicality lapses. “It’s both. Certainly physicality, rotations, next effort, ball contain. We helped off the strong side corner a bunch tonight and started gambling and losing our mind,” Finch explained.
The coach reflected on the challenges of consecutive games in the same city. “When you play back-to-back, you make a few little adjustments and you go on. Those games are just so different, even if it’s the same team the next day,” he said.
Finch acknowledged Memphis’ shooting success. “They’re not usually a good three-point shooting team. Tonight, it was a lot of open looks,” he said, explaining how the Grizzlies built a 20-point second-half lead.
Despite Anthony Edwards’ 39 points and Jaden McDaniels’ 29, Minnesota could not overcome Memphis’ consistent scoring and defensive execution.
