Timberwolves Ride Gobert’s Dominance to Crucial Wins

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — The Minnesota Timberwolves secured a crucial 114-109 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday, bolstered by the stellar performance of center Rudy Gobert in a season marked by inconsistent play. The Wolves, now 14-3 in their last 17 games, remain in the hunt for a favorable playoff position in the tight Western Conference.

The Timberwolves, who have grappled with maintaining focus and consistency throughout the 2024-25 NBA season, showed resilience despite a late challenge from a 76ers team that had lost ten consecutive games prior to meeting Minnesota. With only 1:45 left in the game, the 76ers closed the gap to one point, but the Wolves held their ground, scoring pivotal points to seal the win.

Gobert’s impact was palpable; after returning from a back injury, he has emerged as a key figure in the Wolves’ resurgence. Over the last 13 games, Minnesota has recorded a 10-3 record, largely attributable to Gobert’s exceptional defensive and offensive performances. “I loved our focus and poise throughout the game,” Gobert said postgame. “We stick to the game plan and do what we have to do to win.”

His impressive stats reflect this dominance; in the last 13 games, he has contributed an astounding net rating swing of plus 26.1 points per 100 possessions when he is on the court compared to when he’s off. Coach Chris Finch praised Gobert’s role, stating, “He looks like the Defensive Player of the Year that he was last year — consistently challenging everything on defense and finishing very well on offense.”

As the Timberwolves’ playoff push intensifies, their tenuous position underscores the urgency of each game remaining on the schedule. The stakes are clear: just two games separate the Wolves from the eighth-place team in the conference. Finch acknowledged the pressure but emphasized the need for a cohesive, energetic effort from the team. “We have got to get out in transition and make more energy plays,” he noted.

Gobert’s transformation since returning reflects a collective urgency within the team. Averaging 71.3% shooting and increasing his scoring attempts, Gobert’s presence has reshaped Minnesota’s offensive flow. “We’re throwing him the ball in the pocket,” Finch explained. “His ability to catch and finish has been huge.” This adjustment has been particularly effective against teams that attempt to double team stars like Anthony Edwards.

The looming schedule features formidable opponents, including matchups against the Milwaukee Bucks and Memphis Grizzlies, which could decisively impact the Timberwolves’ playoff trajectory. Gobert’s vital contributions will be essential in navigating these challenges as the team approaches the postseason.

Ultimately, the Timberwolves’ season encapsulates a delicate balance between talent and teamwork, with Gobert serving as the linchpin of their success. As the intensity of the season heightens, Gobert’s determination to lead his team will be tested in the weeks to come.