Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch is still recuperating from a torn patellar tendon on his right knee sustained during an accidental on-court incident in their previous game against the Phoenix Suns last April 28.

Despite his injury, the 54-year-old coach is determined to contribute to his team's efforts against the defending NBA champions, Denver Nuggets, in the Western Conference Semifinals.

There is growing optimism that Finch will be seated near the Timberwolves bench during Game 1 against the Nuggets, according to league insiders Shams Charania and Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic.

However, Timberwolves assistant coach Micah Nori will take on a more active role with Finch's mobility limited, although Finch will still be present along the bench area.

The Timberwolves' and Nuggets' series opener is scheduled for Saturday night, May 4, at the Ball Arena in Denver.

One day before the game, during a team practice at the Ball Arena, he was already planning his potential seating position on the bench.

Chris Finch successfully undergoes surgery

Finch underwent surgery on his right knee on Wednesday, May 1. The next day, he was already leading the Timberwolves team practice while wearing crutches.

The 2024 NBA Coach of the Year candidate traveled separately from the team, who made their way to Denver on Thursday night due to a post-surgery appointment.

Finch subsequently flew to Denver immediately after his medical appointment on Friday morning.