Chris Finch didn’t like Rudy Gobert’s comment

After losing to the Pelicans, Rudy Gobert shook the locker room Wolves demanding that those not defending (Anthony Edwards? Julius Randle?) be sent to the bench. A message to his teammates and his coaches, what that implies Chris Finch let his stars miss too much…

“I am aware of his comments”, the coach replied. “I will say two things: First, anyone who knows the way we operate here knows that we have a high level of accountability. Second, I conduct all my conversations with us internally. I think it’s disappointing that he felt the need to do it elsewhere. But anyway, that’s covered today. No team that’s won something big has done it by replacing their main players.”

Chris Finch, however, admits Wolves are on edge and “in a mood” but, for the manager, that is not necessarily down to one or two players in particular, but rather the general atmosphere.

“Collective Bad Mood”

“Most actions involving little participation come from a collective bad mood”he also stated. “So those are the things I’m trying to identify. The quick defense of the game is the most obvious thing for us, it’s a bit of a key test of our mood and willingness to put in the effort.”

Listening to Chris Finch, sometimes there seems to be a disconnect between the “offensive” and “defensive” players in the group. Forwards like Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle would then feel like they have to do too much on offense, leaving the defense to the other group. Enough to annoy the defenders, who in turn would put in less effort (screens, movement, etc.) to help them attack. And ultimately cause general discomfort?

“I know it’s hard to score 30 points a game in this league. All I can say is that the offense doesn’t have to be that hard.”concludes the coach. “The way you spend your energy is important, and it’s possible to balance things out with a simpler attack and stronger defense.”