Will Minnesota Timberwolves HC Chris Finch Be On Game 1 Sidelines After Suffering Serious Knee Injury?

Chris Finch, the head coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves, suffered a patellar tendon rupture in a somewhat unusual incident during Game 4 of the Timberwolves - Suns series. The injury occurred when Timberwolves guard Micheal Conley lost his balance and inadvertently collided with Finch. The impact resulted in Finch rupturing his patellar tendon, necessitating surgery.

The nature of the surgery requires Finch's right leg to be immobilized during the recovery process. This immobilization will force Finch to coach from a seated position, which could potentially make him a safety hazard on the sidelines. Being stationary could interfere with the normal flow of the game and possibly endanger players if play comes too close to the bench.

Due to these risks, the team may need to adjust Finch's coaching position. He could be relocated to the back corner of the bench near the entrance to the locker room, minimizing the risk of interference with active play. Alternatively, he might need to direct the team from the locker room, although this would significantly change how he normally operates.

Despite these challenges, Finch is determined to continue coaching through the playoffs, adapting as necessary to manage his recovery while still leading his team.