Adequate performance from Rudy Gobert is crucial for the Timberwolves to have a successful season

Struggling season from previous Defensive Player of the Year, Rudy Gobert, expected from Minnesota Timberwolves, due to his dip in performance last year at 33 years old.

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2025 September 11 . 4:40 PM

2 min read

Need for Impressive Performance from Rudy Gobert in the Coming Timberwolves Season

Adequate performance from Rudy Gobert is crucial for the Timberwolves to have a successful season

Minnesota Timberwolves Ponder Offensive Strategy Shift for Rudy Gobert

The Minnesota Timberwolves are considering a potential change in offensive strategy for centre Rudy Gobert, aiming to extract more than just solid production from the elite rim-protector. Gobert's contract, valued at $35 million in the current season with an additional $74.5 million over the next two years, puts added pressure on the team to maximise his contributions.

Despite his age (33 years old), Gobert is still a formidable force on defence, particularly in drop coverage. However, his production on simple actions, such as catch-and-dunk, has been a long-standing issue. The Timberwolves, who have not been discussed as having a surplus of playmakers, are looking to implement innovative offensive strategies to capitalise on Gobert's unique skillset.

One such idea is to have both Gobert and Julius Randle capable of making passes, potentially saving clock and improving transition offense. This proposed change would involve Minnesota's two most dynamic guards, Edwards and Rob Dillingham, leaking out for quick transition baskets, with Gobert entering the frame in unsuccessful situations.

The search results do not provide the exact number of blocks Rudy Gobert has achieved in the current NBA season, but it is known that his blocking average has decreased to 1.4 shots per game, a drop from previous seasons. This decline, coupled with a statistical down year in 2022, has raised concerns about Gobert's impact on the court.

However, unless someone finds a way to get Gobert wide-open shots near the rim, any improvement will likely have to start defensively. It is suggested that Gobert could extend his athleticism to remind teams of his defensive prowess. The potential benefits of this change include faster offense, saving clock, and improved team performance.

It is important to note that this proposed change has not been confirmed by the Timberwolves as of yet. The idea is to install actions that would have Gobert throw longer outlet passes after defensive stops, a departure from his traditional role as a defensive anchor.

Despite the challenges, it is unrealistic to expect Gobert to become a big-time scorer, as he has never averaged more than nine shot attempts per night. Any bounce-back for Gobert is unlikely to be offense-driven, as there are other offensive options on the team.

The Minnesota Timberwolves managed to make it to the Western Conference for the second year in a row in 2022, despite Gobert's individual decline. As the team looks to build on this success, the proposed change in offensive strategy for Gobert could prove to be a key factor in their future performance.