After a hard-fought Game 1 loss to the Golden State Warriors, Timberwolves coach Chris Finch voiced concerns over the increasing physicality of playoff basketball, specifically targeting the Warriors' tactics. Finch highlighted that Golden State's aggressive rebounding strategy often crosses the line into excessive fouling, particularly against Rudy Gobert, who he argues is unfairly targeted.

Finch expressed the team’s intention to respond physically in subsequent games, indicating a willingness to take matters into their own hands. Warriors coach Steve Kerr also shared frustrations regarding the officiating, recalling a similar scenario from prior playoff seasons.