The friction between Rudy Gobert and Draymond Green is well-documented, and Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch is certainly aware of it. Although Gobert extended an olive branch earlier this year, hoping for the best from Green, the Golden State Warriors responded in kind.
Still, Finch made it clear what he expects from Gobert amid the ongoing tension.
“I mean, listen, you just got to play basketball,” Finch said via Andrew Dukowitz on X (formerly Twitter). “I’m sure there’s going to be a lot of physicality, some of it certainly on the edge of legality… we got to focus and play basketball.”
Now gearing up for the Western Conference Semifinals, the Timberwolves and Warriors sit as the sixth and seventh seeds, both embracing the underdog role. After impressive first-round victories, both teams are eyeing a spot in the Conference Finals—but the rising playoff intensity could reignite the Gobert-Green rivalry.
Their mutual dislike is no secret, with Green often being the aggressor in public comments, even when Gobert hasn’t provoked him. Regardless, only one team will advance, and both players are likely to do whatever it takes.
Chris Finch Calls for Calm Amid Rivalry
Finch knows that keeping Gobert composed is crucial for the Timberwolves’ chances. As much as the feud is public, staying level-headed is essential for Minnesota’s game plan.
Gobert certainly proved his value with a dominant 27-point, 24-rebound performance in the team’s last game. The Warriors, like the Lakers before them, don’t have a true big man to counter Gobert’s presence inside, which could give him an edge.
That said, Green, who finished third in Defensive Player of the Year voting, may have something to say about that. His versatile defense makes him a threat both on the perimeter and in the paint.
Still, Gobert’s recent surge in confidence could rattle Green. Finch, however, needs his center to remain a stabilizing force, as he was during their closeout game—and likely will be again.
Game 1 tips off Tuesday at the Target Center, where the home crowd could spark a big performance from Gobert. Whatever happens between the two rivals, Finch is hoping both sides keep their cool.
