Rudy Gobert's impact on the court is like a masterclass in defensive excellence, and it’s high time we recognize his contributions. With four Defensive Player of the Year awards under his belt and a fifth potentially on the horizon, Gobert is carving out a Hall of Fame-worthy career.
When Gobert is playing, his teams consistently rank among the league's top defenses. This season, the Timberwolves boast a defensive rating of 108.6 when he’s on the floor.
However, when he sits, that number jumps to 121.1-a striking 12.5-point difference. This underscores just how pivotal Gobert is to the Wolves' defensive success.
While Anthony Edwards is often spotlighted as the Timberwolves' star, Gobert's value cannot be overstated. His defensive prowess transforms the team, making him indispensable. Despite occasional offensive struggles, his defensive presence is franchise-defining.
Since Gobert joined the Wolves, they've experienced some of their most successful seasons. His influence is undeniable, even if a championship has eluded him thus far. Gobert's ability to anchor a defense is a key reason the Wolves remain competitive.
The real test for the Wolves will be managing the minutes when Gobert isn't on the court. Playoff narratives suggesting Gobert is unplayable are misleading; those issues stemmed from roster construction, not his play. In high-stakes moments, Gobert's defensive skills are crucial.
For the Wolves to contend for a championship, players like Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle must step up defensively when Gobert rests. Edwards has shown flashes of defensive brilliance, and Randle needs to elevate his game on that end.
Ultimately, Rudy Gobert's presence is a game-changer. As the Timberwolves aim for a deep playoff run, his defensive dominance will be at the heart of their success.