Chris Finch Is Pleased With This Impressive Timberwolves Rookie

Chris Finch Is Pleased With This Impressive Timberwolves Rookie originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have a good thing going with their young players. Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr. are clear standouts in the 2025 NBA Summer League as returning sophomores. That has impressed the Timberwolves fans, the front office, and the coaching staff.

Head coach Chris Finch has been with the Timberwolves, watching from the sidelines, as Kevin Hanson took over for the Summer League. With this run, it is clear that Minnesota is working hard to make their players shine, and some have stood out amidst all the big performances. For Finch, that is rookie Joan Beringer.

The Timberwolves are always on the lookout for promising players who can help the team. They did that with players like Jaden McDaniels through the Draft. Minnesota is doing it again with Joan Beringer, the French teenager, who has striking similarities to his countryman Rudy Gobert.

Beringer is the clear successor to Gobert, who is now 33, so having a plan for a successor is good for the Timberwolves. Not only is Beringer developing within the Timberwolves' system, but Gobert is there to help them every step along the way.

Finch Sees Beringer's Potential As A Rotational Big Man

It is clear as day that Beringer is part of the Timberwolves' long-term plan. He already has the physical tools to become a top player with his length and athleticism. At the same time, he is a raw player who only started playing basketball when he was 14. With barely four years of experience, he is already standing out in the NBA, which is an impressive feat.

Joan Beringer PnR lob dunk, assisted by Rob Dillingham pic.twitter.com/Qs8bCsFa8T

— Timberwolves Clips (@WolvesClips) July 13, 2025

With Gobert taking Beringer under his wing, the teenage big man has a lot of potential to tap into. It also looks like he has impressed every member of the coaching staff, including Finch. Since he is the primary decision maker, Finch sees a bright future with his young rookie.

"Man, he's been super dynamic. He's got such great feel, and you don't often see who's still that raw, but has such great feel. He's a quick learner, he's got an incredible second leap. He goes after everything offensively and defensively," Finch said in a Summer League interview. "He plays within himself. He's fun to watch, and he's making a real impact out there."

Beringer Will Keep Proving The Timberwolves Right For Trusting Him

Considering the Timberwolves' need for depth in the frontcourt, Beringer is a great addition. He will be primarily an option after Gobert, Naz Reid, and Julius Randle, but he is already in a good position.

"[Joan Beringer] really gives us a developmental young player at every position, 1-5."

Wolves GM Matt Lloyd tells @steve21smith that Minnesota were ecstatic to get Beringer at No. 17 🙌 pic.twitter.com/BdjJfWoMOa

— NBA TV (@NBATV) July 13, 2025

The future is bright for Minnesota, as Beringer is already doing well amongst the coaches. At the same time, his fellow rookie Rocco Zikarsky could also carve a path for himself, especially since he is a 7'3" center with upside as a pick-and-pop threat due to his shooting.

Tim Connelly and the Timberwolves have hit another home run, and Beringer could be one of the best players on the team in a few years. They need to develop him well as a well-rounded player.

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 13, 2025, where it first appeared.