Chris Finch believes the Minnesota Timberwolves need playmaking and defense from a new signature known for scoring.
The Minnesota Timberwolves face a lot of pressure heading into the 2025-26 NBA season. After reaching the Western Conference Finals over the past two years, fans are hoping to overcome that hurdle.
The Timberwolves have a lot of faith in Anthony Edwards, who is ready for MVP running next season.
The Timberwolves are asking Edwards to become a great defender. But they also need someone to become a reliable playmaker.
Well, that’s exactly what manager Chris Finch wants from one of the Timberwolves’ latest stars, and he liked what he saw in his first preseason game.
Chris Finch spoke with reporters ahead of his second preseason game with the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday night.
When discussing the powerful Bones Highland show, Finch said he hopes Highland will be more than a scorer, and admits that his playmaking and defensive skills can help them.
“What’s with Bones is that he just needs who he is. He’s a range shooter and can make his own shots. He’s an underrated pick-and-role player, an underrated playmaker.
“He’s always been an explosive scorer, but he has a lot of ball skills. We had to pick him up some playmaking duties, and he did that good job.
“We’re just on him all the time. He has long arms. He can really get better. He shows it. He’s the guy you can swing the ball and make 28 footers.”
The Minnesota Timberwolves have players who are strong in their starting lineup. But depth is important in today’s NBA.
This is where the Timberwolves face a make-up or break situation. If they want to run a championship, some of their spinning pieces need to be strong.
Joanne Bellinger was impressed with Mike Conley and the Timberwolves on a strong summer league and preseason excursion.
However, Highlands are not the only young star Finch who has high hopes. Finch asked Rob Dillingham to follow their simple plans and fit the role their side needed.
If Timberwolves’ rotation pieces can be delivered at the highest level, Anthony Edwards will help guide Timberwolves to the NBA championship.