Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports activities
2023-24 stats: 13.6 ppg, 12.4 rpg, 1.9 bpg, 1.4 apg, 0.7 spg, 65.5 FG% in 91 gamesSalary rating: No. 13 ($41,000,000)
Successful Defensive Participant of the Yr in 2023-24 for a record-tying fourth time, Minnesota’s Rudy Gobert was as soon as once more jeered within the playoffs by different gamers and rival followers alike for seeming to get “uncovered” defensively when compelled to defend on switches.
Look, if a middle stopping a Doncic iso on the perimeter is the barometer for successful Defensive Participant of the Yr, then no large man would ever win the award once more. Positive, extra switchability would assist Gobert an incredible deal defensively however as is, he’s essentially the most impactful defender within the league, as his elite dimension, size and timing assist him shut down the rim for opponents.
Plus, regardless of getting “uncovered,” Gobert performed a big half within the Timberwolves attending to the Western Convention Finals. Oh, and he made Minnesota 16.0 factors per 100 possessions higher throughout his time on the ground within the postseason, so clearly, his affect is being immensely felt by opposing groups, together with within the largest stage doable.
So possibly it’s time for the Gobert slander to cease.
