It only took the mention of Flip Saunders’ name for Timberwolves coach Tom Thibodeau go all “six degrees of sentimentality.’’
In a pregame ceremony at Target Center on Thursday, Saunders — who coached the Timberwolves for 11 seasons in two stints — will be honored. With some former players — including current Lakers assistant coach Mark Madsen — in the house, a banner will be raised to the rafters in the arena.
And it’s only right, said Thibodeau, whose connection to Saunders goes way back. “We’re thrilled we’re going to be honoring him,’’ he said. “For what he’s meant to the organization, the city.