Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Flip Saunders has been forced into hospital following a setback in his fight against cancer.

The 60-year-old was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma earlier this year, but was able to stay with the team while battling the illness.

However, Saunders has been forced back into hospital for further treatment on his condition, and the team will now pass into the interim charge of Sam Mitchell, while Milt Newton will increase his responsibilities as general manager.

"Our first priority is making sure Flip regains his strength and is back to 100% before he is back to work," Timberwolves chief executive Rob Moor told reporters.

"And while there is no timetable for Flip's return, we believe it will be measured in months, and not weeks. To attempt to place a timeline on things at this time would be unfair to the due process of recovery."

Saunders rejoined the Timberwolves for his second spell as coach of the club last year.