Rudy Gobert is the Minnesota Timberwolves’ defensive anchor, which means he usually plays in the paint. The only time he goes out of the shaded area is when he is forced to switch in the pick-and-roll.
The most well-known switch matchup for Gobert through the years has been his times guarding Luka Doncic. With the history they have from the 2024 Playoffs, he has been a target for Luka this time around in the series between the Timberwolves and Los Angeles Lakers.
Despite most people’s thoughts that Gobert will get dominated on the switch, he has done well in this matchup. Doncic and LeBron James have barely gotten past him, even though they try to exploit his flat-footedness.
Austin Reaves has gotten past a few times, which led to his viral moment shouting “He can’t guard me” to the crowd.
It has become a bizarre discourse when people talk about Gobert and his viability as a defender. He is a fantastic anchor, as evidenced by his four Defensive Player of the Year awards.
In fact, Gobert has actually done well in defending Luka in their matchups, as Lakers players are only shooting 41.7% from the field in their isolation possessions against the Frenchman.
People are often caught up in the narratives, which has led to them thinking Gobert is not a good defender. He has performed well and done his job in this series, which makes him love the matchup.
“I’m a competitor, I live for those moments. People behind their screens see that as a negative moment for me. That’s what I live for,” Gobert said ahead of Game 3. “Guarding the best players in the world and doing it over and over and over.”
Of course, Rudy knows the Timberwolves defense needs improving in the series. They held the Lakers to only 94.5 points per game in the first two matchups, which could jump in the next few games.
For such a talented offensive team, the Lakers are struggling against the Timberwolves defense. Gobert must keep leading his team defensively because he knows the Lakers could shift to another gear.
“There’s always things to improve, but overall, the effort and focus have been there defensively,” Gobert continued. “We know that this is who we are as a team. We go as far as our defense can go, we need it every single night.”
Of course, the Timberwolves have not reached their peak on both ends. Anthony Edwards has not had the superstar game yet, but they remain competitive against the Lakers.
It is still a long series for the Timberwolves as they play Game 3 at Target Center on Friday night. Gobert will look to make an impact that no other player can do what he can even if he gets isolated against Doncic again.
