Rudy Gobert, Timberwolves Not Happy about DPOY Snub

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Rudy Gobert, Minnesota Timberwolves
Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

After an ugly Game 1 loss to the Denver Nuggets in the opening round of the NBA Playoffs, the Minnesota Timberwolves responded Monday night with comebacks in both the second and fourth quarter, to secure a 119-114 victory to tie the series 1-1 going to Minneapolis.

It wasn’t all pretty. The Wolves dug themselves a 19-point hole in the first quarter and missed 11 of their 30 free throws on the night. Anthony Edwards’ shot was off target for the second-straight game, after questions over his health continue to swirl publicly.

Rudy Gobert mad about DPOY results

After the game there was still some saltiness in the Timberwolves locker room, despite the win. Jaden McDaniels was at his locker, dragging the Nuggets’ defense through mud. A few feet away, Rudy Gobert was talking about defense too. His own Defensive Player of the Year snub.

“Not the first time I’ve gotten disrespected. Probably not the last. If you want to disrespect greatness, take it for granted, whatever, soon they’ll realize the impact.”

Rudy Gobert – ESPN

In case you missed it, NBA DPOY was unveiled Monday. Not only did fellow Frenchman Victor Wembanyama win via unanimous decision, over Gobert, but Rudy didn’t even make the top three, which is what really rubs him the wrong way.

During his Rudy Gobert’s 13-year NBA career, he’s won four Defensive Player of the Year awards, tied for the most ever. This season,voters put both Chet Holmgren and Ausar Thompson above him.

Player (Team)1st Place
(5 Pts)		2nd Place
(3 Pts)		3rd Place
(1 Pt)		Total
Victor Wembanyama, SAS10000500
Chet Holmgren, OKC07611239
Ausar Thompson, DET093360
Rudy Gobert, MIN042941
Scottie Barnes, TOR031221
Derrick White, BOS02713
Cason Wallace, OKC0226
Amen Thompson, HOU0206
Dyson Daniels, ATL0125
OG Anunoby, NYK0114

That sudden DPOY chip on Gobert’s shoulder clearly fueled his defensive performance in Game 2. Despite finishing with just two points and seven rebounds in 28 minutes, it was Rudy’s defence against Nikola Jokic that made the victory possible.

Minnesota Timberwolves needed Rudy’s defense to wear down Jokic

Jokic was a complete non-factor from the field for most of the game, but especially late. He finished with his standard 24 points and a near triple-double. However, this time, it came on 8-of-20 shooting, and just 1-of-7 from deep. While Gobert was guarding him, The Joker was just 1-of-8 Monday from the field.

“I was lucky. I’m not a top-three defender so I cannot do that. So I was lucky.”

Rudy Gobert – ESPN

Of course the MN Timberwolves defender’s remark was made tongue in cheek, but he had to feel good about the statement on a day where the voting results discredited him. Chris Finch will continue to need his big man to step up in a big way if Minnesota is going to take the series against their big rival.

Now the Timberwolves return home for a pair of games with the series evened at one. The Target Center will be rocking, and unwelcome to both Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic, on Thursday night. Chris Finch wasn’t happy about it either.

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