Coach Chris Finch Shrugs Off Mike Conley's Defensive Issues

Due to the attention on him before the series, many expected the Lakers would exploit Conley's defense. Finch made sure that wouldn't happen by putting Mike on Rui Hachimura.

That is still a dangerous matchup because of Hachimura's strength and size advantage, but Conley's energy was off the charts in the game, as he proved the doubters wrong.

Finch Appreciates Conley's Hard Work

Game 1 was a preview of what Conley can do for the Timberwolves. He only played 22 minutes in the first game, but it was an impactful stint.  The defensive performance was impressive, as he even got three steals.

Most people counted him out of the series, even suggesting he would come off the bench. Of course, he won't play that many minutes because of the mismatches, but he always wants to maximize every stint he is given.

Coach Finch appreciates what Conley did in Game 1 and will continue to do for the rest of the series.

"I thought he did great. We know Mike can do several things well. He always competes, he's always in the right spots," Finch said ahead of Game 2. "He connects the good plan at a super high level. We have confidence in putting him in a lot of places. We're not overly concerned about whether there is a classic matchup for him or not."

Conley Will Keep Proving His Worth To The Timberwolves

After a tough 2024-25 season, Conley wants to keep proving he belongs on the Timberwolves' roster because of his impact. Mike had many injury troubles this season, but he kept fighting and proved he deserved his spot.

Conley is a respected and experienced leader in the locker room and overall a nice person. That is what most Timberwolves players would say when asked about Mike. 

They respect him because he is kind, which affects how they play with him because they know he will step up when needed. Conley pays back their trust with energy and playmaking, something Minnesota sorely lacks.

As long as he keeps working hard as one of Minnesota's most reliable leaders, he has a place on the team. The Timberwolves have a fantastic group of players led by Anthony Edwards, but he will be the first to tell people that Conley should be credited.