Charles Barkley called on Minnesota Timber Wolves head coach Chris Finch after his decision to be with a key player in the team’s loss in Game 2 against the OKC Thunder.
Anthony Edwards scored 32 points, grabbed nine boards and paid six assists, but Jaden McDaniels added 22 points in the evening.
The Minnesota Timber Wolves boasted the first half of the game and remained within the touching distance of the OKC Thunder.
However, they fell apart in the third quarter, and the Thunder controlled the game from there, securing a 118-103 victory, leading 2-0 in the series.
A key part of the team throughout the playoffs, Julius Randle scored only six points, struggling the night, only 2-11 out of the field.
Randle acknowledged his inadequate performance and vowed to deliver in Game 3 for his team.
His lack of brilliance in the game led Chris Finch to make the bold decision to bench Randle throughout the fourth quarter.
However, NBA legend Charles Barkley called out to the coach after making the call.
Randle is one of the best performers in the Timberwolves playoffs this season.
In his series with the Golden State Warriors, Randle posted historic figures.
However, on one of his off nights, Randle was benched by his coach, which led to criticism of him.
He states:
“You’re going home in a must-see situation. You can’t have his confidence in the essential winning game. Your job as a coach is not to gain confidence, but to give confidence.”
Randle played 31 minutes in the game, recording the worst playoff performance of his history for the Timberwolves.
However, the veteran is first to know that they need to step up and deliver to the team in Game 3.
Randle’s move towards the Timberwolves in the offseason has changed a lot for the team.
He replaced one of their main players and many were expected from him as he reached the team.
The 30-year-old was able to provide a great performance for his team in the regular season and playoffs.
Draymond Green recently said he lost his match against Randle when the two teams met.
Randle’s work ethic has also been praised by his coaches and fellow players.
In the past, he struggled in the playoffs, but that wasn’t an issue for Minnesota players.
At 0-2, the series will be difficult to pull back, but if Randle can become his dominant self and lead his side, the Timberwolves can still turn things around.