Timberwolves coach Chris Finch has torn patellar tendon in right knee after collision with player

PHOENIX — Minnesota coach Chris Finch suffers a ruptured patellar tendon in his right knee after a collision with Timberwolves guard Mike Conley in the fourth quarter of the team’s playoff victory over the Phoenix Suns Sunday night.

Finch was helped off the field and then left the arena on a cart. The Timberwolves have confirmed the nature of Finch’s injury.

Conley was trying to dribble down the sideline when he collided with Suns star Devin Booker and bumped into Finch. Conley tried to set up their fall, but Finch grimaced and immediately grabbed his right knee.

He remained on the ground for a few minutes, surrounded by Minnesota players, coaches and staff, before slowly getting up and being helped off the field.

Minnesota beat the Phoenix Suns 122-116 sweep first round seriesadvancing to the second round for the first time since 2004.

Assistant coach Micah Nori led the team for the final 1:41. Nori said Finch was in the medical room being examined and the team came down to see him after the game.

“He’s obviously in a good mood, just like the guys,” Nori said.

Conley said he didn’t see Finch until the last moment and tried to restrain him after the collision. The veteran goaltender couldn’t help but tell a joke or two at the coach’s expense following the Game 4 victory.

“I told him to sit (his butt) down — he shouldn’t get up like that at the end of the game,” Conley said. “He’s in the way. But prayers for him, I’m sure he will be fine.

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