In a shocking turn of events during the Minnesota Timberwolves' 122-116 victory over the Phoenix Suns in Game 4 of their first-round playoff series on April 29, 2024, head coach Chris Finch sustained a ruptured patellar tendon in his right knee. The injury occurred when Timberwolves point guard Mike Conley collided with Finch after being bumped out of bounds by Suns guard Devin Booker.
Finch was able to walk off the court on crutches but will likely require surgery, according to reports. The Timberwolves have not yet announced a timeline for his return or who will take over as head coach in his absence.
Despite the injury, Minnesota was able to complete a four-game sweep of the Suns and advance to the second round of the playoffs for the first time since 2004. The team will face either the Denver Nuggets or Los Angeles Lakers in Round 2, with a start date yet to be determined.
Finch's injury is a significant blow for the Timberwolves, who have had an impressive season under his leadership. He was announced as the third-place vote-getter for NBA Coach of the Year earlier in the day.
The incident occurred with just over one minute remaining in the game when Conley was driving downcourt and forced out of bounds by Booker. In doing so, Conley collided with Finch, who was standing on the sideline. The collision caused Finch to go down holding his knee in pain.
The Timberwolves' medical staff attended to Finch immediately after the injury, and he was later seen leaving the arena on a cart. Assistant coach Micah Nori took over for Finch for the remainder of the game.
Finch's injury is not uncommon in basketball, particularly among coaches who are often close to the action. The patellar tendon connects the kneecap to the shinbone and can be easily injured through sudden impacts or falls. Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury and whether surgery is required.
Despite this setback, Finch remains in good spirits, according to reports from his teammates and staff. The Timberwolves are rallying around him and remain focused on their playoff run.
