Mike Conley’s place in the Minnesota Timberwolves’ playoff rotation is under scrutiny. The 38-year-old guard played nearly 11 minutes in Game 1. This was the third-most minutes among Minnesota reserves.
Head coach Chris Finch has long expressed fondness for Conley. Finch once said not playing him felt like a crime. Conley joined the team via trade in February 2023.
Conley made his only shot attempt, a corner three-pointer. He also dished out two assists without a turnover. His performance did not hurt the team.
Finch used a 10-man rotation in Game 1. All ten players saw action in the first quarter. This strategy differed from past postseasons.
Bones Hyland did not play in the second half. He logged just over five minutes total. Hyland had been ahead of Conley on the depth chart.
Ayo Dosunmu and Naz Reid played more minutes than Conley. Dosunmu and Hyland have the nickname ‘Twin Turbos’. They are known for pressuring defenses.
Conley started six games late in the regular season. This was due to injuries to Anthony Edwards and Jaden McDaniels. The team is now fully healthy.
The veteran guard has shown some regression on both ends. His 2025 playoff performance was notably difficult. Playing him now is considered a risky proposition.
Finch still sees Conley as a postseason rotation player. This is not expected to change for Game 2. The question remains if he can be counted on all series.
