Rick Adelman Supports JJ Barea in Criticism of the Timberwolves


As the Timberwolves’ season takes its last few swirls down the drain, players and coaches are taking the opportunity to let out their frustrations. Head coach Rick Adelman came out in support of guard JJ Barea’s harsh assessment of Minny’s effort. Per the AP: “Rick Adelman is trying to change the culture in Minnesota from one that accepts losing. If the coach is successful in making that happen, he may look to veteran guard J.J. Barea’s stinging criticism of some teammates as the first step in the right direction. Adelman said Tuesday that he did not have a problem with Barea’s comments that some Timberwolves didn’t care enough after a recent loss. In fact, the coach said he supported players making their feelings known when they see something they don’t like. ‘You have to really feel the hurt when you lose games after the game is over,’ said Adelman, whose team has lost 12 of 13 as it limps to the finish. ‘When you lose a game like we did on Sunday, I think the frustration just took over with him. It certainly did with me, too … ‘People should get mad. People should not accept that,’ Adelman said. ‘I think young players sometimes have to learn that. The game ends, you don’t get dressed in 10 minutes and leave. At least you think about it. I think that’s what he was saying. I think that’s a lesson for all of our team, especially. You don’t condone it. You don’t accept losing. You just don’t do it.’ Barea, who helped the Dallas Mavericks to the NBA title last season, declined to comment Tuesday. But he said plenty Sunday night after the Timberwolves gave up a 21-point lead at home in a loss to the Golden State Warriors. Without naming names, Barea blistered some teammates, saying there weren’t enough players in the locker room who cared about the outcomes of games.”