Timberwolves Coach Finch Plans Role Shift for Anthony Edwards
Minnesota Timberwolves coach Chris Finch intends to play Anthony Edwards off the ball more next season. This shift aims to leverage Edwards' offensive capabilities more effectively and address team-wide consistency issues.
Key takeaways
- Anthony Edwards will play more shooting guard and off the ball next season for the Minnesota Timberwolves.
- Coach Chris Finch believes this role adjustment will better utilize Edwards' offensive skills and help overcome team inconsistencies.
- Edwards has shown marked improvement in his three-point shooting and midrange game in recent seasons.
What Happened
Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch announced plans to utilize star player Anthony Edwards in a different role next season, with a focus on playing off the ball more often. Finch believes that the team may have previously put Edwards in a "disservice" by having him handle the ball too much, particularly given the production limitations of other players like Mike Conley and Donte DiVincenzo.
This strategic adjustment is expected to allow Edwards more opportunities to drive to the basket and play downhill. The team's second-round playoff series against San Antonio, which ended in six games, highlighted challenges where the opposing defense could overload due to Edwards' on-ball focus.
Background
Edwards has demonstrated significant offensive development in previous offseasons. Two years prior, he improved his three-point shooting, increasing efficiency and volume to lead the NBA with 320 three-pointers made in the 2024-25 season. Last season, he enhanced his midrange game, resulting in a career-high scoring average of 28.8 points per game and a higher two-point shooting percentage.
Despite Edwards' individual offensive advancements, coach Finch has expressed frustration with team-wide inconsistencies during the past regular season. He cited issues with focus, effort, and execution as contributing factors to the team's struggles.
Key Facts
- Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch stated Anthony Edwards will play more shooting guard next season.
- Finch believes playing Edwards on the ball excessively was a "disservice" to the player.
- Edwards averaged a career-high 28.8 points per game in the 2025-26 season.
- The Timberwolves lost a second-round playoff series in six games.
- Anthony Edwards will play off the ball more with the addition of LaMelo Ball.
- Edwards improved his three-point shooting significantly between the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons.
- Edwards improved his two-point shooting percentage from 50.7% to 55.4% last season.
- Finch described the team's regular season as inconsistent due to focus, effort, and execution issues.
Sources reviewed
Project Chintan independently synthesized and analyzed information cross-checked across the sources listed above.
Related stories
Indiana Fever Coach Stephanie White Defends Players Amid Foul Backlash
NBA Christmas Day Schedule Announced; Other League News
Josh Kushner, Bob Iger to Acquire Los Angeles Lakers for Record $12 Billion
