After a disappointing loss to the Denver Nuggets on October 27, 2025, Minnesota Timberwolves coach Chris Finch issued a direct challenge to his team’s key defenders, aiming to restore the team’s faltering defensive performance. Finch specifically called out Jaden McDaniels and Rudy Gobert, stating, “We need more from our All-Defensive guys to set the tone.”
The Timberwolves entered the game at Target Center with a strong first-half performance, leading by eight points at halftime. However, the tide turned dramatically in the third quarter, where the Nuggets erupted for 45 points, with Jamal Murray contributing 23 points alone. Denver shot an impressive 67% from the field during that quarter, leaving Finch visibly frustrated. He remarked, “No defense. Nothing at the rim. Kept turning corners on us, getting downhill.”
This defensive collapse contrasts sharply with the Timberwolves’ previous reputation as a formidable defensive unit. Last season, they ranked among the best in the league, but as of now, they find themselves with the fourth-worst defense, allowing an alarming average of 119.8 points per 100 possessions. For context, this figure was significantly lower at 108.4 during the 2023-24 season, indicating a troubling trend.
Both Finch and veteran guard Mike Conley acknowledged the team’s struggles. Conley mentioned that while players are “playing hard,” there are “too many breakdowns” in their defensive efforts. Miscommunication was a recurring issue during the loss to the Nuggets, contributing to several open shots. Conley emphasized the need for unity, stating, “All five guys have to be in the same mindset and connected when we do things.”
Defensive accountability has become a pressing concern for the Timberwolves, particularly when relying on their core players to take on challenges without needing assistance from teammates. “It starts with us,” Gobert said, highlighting the importance of on-ball pressure and collective effort. He noted that the team needs to embrace a more aggressive defensive approach, which has been missing in recent games.
The absence of key players such as Anthony Edwards and Jaylen Clark due to injuries has further impacted the Timberwolves’ defensive capabilities. Finch’s reliance on McDaniels and Gobert, who are compensated for their defensive prowess, underscores the urgency for these players to elevate their performance.
Despite their struggles, Finch remains hopeful. He stated, “We have been extremely inconsistent defensively,” acknowledging the need for improvement. The team’s once-stalwart defense is at risk of fading unless significant changes are made. Conley echoed this sentiment, expressing confusion over why the team is not executing basic defensive principles effectively.
As the Timberwolves look ahead, it is clear that accountability and a return to their defensive roots are essential for success in the coming games. Finch’s challenge to his players is a call to action, one that they must heed if they aim to contend in a competitive league. “It’s got to be what matters more than anything,” Gobert emphasized, highlighting the critical need for defensive stops moving forward.
In a league where defense can often dictate success, the Timberwolves must rapidly adapt to reclaim their position as a formidable force on that end of the court.
