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 12 months 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 pressured to defend on switches.
Look, if a middle stopping a Doncic iso on the perimeter is the barometer for profitable Defensive Participant of the 12 months, then no large man would ever win the award once more. Certain, extra switchability would assist Gobert an excellent deal defensively however as is, he’s essentially the most impactful defender within the league, as his elite measurement, 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 impression is being immensely felt by opposing groups, together with within the greatest stage attainable.
So perhaps it’s time for the Gobert slander to cease.
