Rudy Gobert Addresses Transition Defense Issues and Posts Strong Performance for Timberwolves

Rudy Gobert, the veteran center for the Minnesota Timberwolves, has been in the spotlight recently for both his on-court performance and his insights into the team’s defensive struggles. In a recent game against the Toronto Raptors, Gobert posted a double-double, scoring 15 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, while also blocking four shots and recording one steal in a 112-101 win.

Despite his individual success, the Timberwolves have been grappling with transition defense issues early in the 2024-25 season. Gobert addressed this problem during a practice session, highlighting that the key to improving lies in better defensive positioning. He explained that when a shot is taken, the smaller players need to hold off the opposing big men until the larger defenders can get back into position. “We work on those situations in practice,” Gobert said. “But sometimes it might be Mike (Conley), it might be Ant (Edwards), it’s usually going to be a small guy. Whoever took the shot is going to be the first guy with the big, and he’s got to hold him until I get back or someone bigger gets back.”

Gobert also suggested that in some cases, the team may need to resort to fouling to prevent easy layups or dunks. “Or sometimes even use a foul,” he stated. “We don’t want to be a team that just gives up layups or dunks. Those are 100% shots, especially early in the game.”

In addition to his defensive advice, Gobert has been a steady contributor for the Timberwolves, averaging 10.3 points and 12.3 rebounds per game so far this season. His consistent performance has been a bright spot for a team that is still adjusting to its new roster.

Recent games have also seen Gobert involved in some heated moments, including a double technical foul called on him and Christian Braun after Braun dunked on Gobert during a game.