Ahead of Minnesota’s win in Phoenix last week, Mike Conley removed a brace he’d worn to protect his multiple injured fingers. It wasn’t because the ailments had entirely healed.

Conley validated his spot in the starting lineup against the Heat, scoring 15 points in 25 minutes of a tense 106-104 win.

While his turnover led to a game-tying bucket from the 76ers, with the seconds ticking off the clock in the quarter, Conley chucked up a half-court shot that banked off the backboard and in to give ...

Conley has battled a number of physical issues this season while trying to adapt to a seemingly ever-changing role within the Timberwolves’ lineup. He has started, and come off the bench.