Minnesota Timberwolves dispute Victor Wembanyama playoff block record
The Minnesota Timberwolves have accused officials of missing multiple goaltending calls during Victor Wembanyama’s record-breaking 12-block performance in their 104-102 playoff victory over the San Antonio Spurs.
Head coach Chris Finch insists that at least one-third of the swats delivered by the 7-foot-6 prodigy during Monday’s series opener should not have counted.
The French sensation set a new NBA post-season record for rejections, despite his team ultimately falling short in a closely contested second-round matchup.
Finch highlights officiating concerns
Reviewing the game footage on Tuesday morning, the visiting staff identified several defensive plays they believe were illegal.
“At least four of them were goaltending,” said Finch.
“Maybe even a fifth. To me, it’s a little alarming that none of them were called.”
The Minnesota boss specifically pointed to a first-quarter transition drive by Terrence Shannon Jr, where replays appeared to show the ball hitting the backboard before being swatted away.
Veteran compatriot echoes the frustration
Other contested moments included a second-quarter hook shot from Naz Reid and a close-range attempt by Rudy Gobert.
Gobert, who mentors the rising star on the French national team, found himself locked in a fierce battle against his younger compatriot.
“He fouled me on the first one,” the veteran rim protector noted.
“But if you look at them, probably three or four [were goaltends].”
Ranking 24th on the league’s all-time blocks list, the 7-foot-1 center managed just one rejection himself during the intense encounter.
“I wish I had that type of treatment, too,” Gobert added, referencing the perceived leniency shown towards the San Antonio standout.
Crucial points in a tight playoff series
The controversy adds an extra layer of tension to what is already proving to be a fiercely contested Western Conference clash.
Finch emphasised the mathematical impact of the missed calls, noting that four unpenalised goaltends equate to an eight-point swing in a game decided by just two points.
“You know the value of eight points in an NBA game? It’s massive,” the coach concluded.
Both franchises will now prepare for Game 2, which tips off in Texas on Wednesday night.
