Rudy Gobert, in his eleven-year-long career, has established himself as one of the key elements in the Timberwolves defense. Displaying remarkable versatility this season in the Minnesota colors, the French center earned the trust of his teammates. Although his numbers throughout the season are good enough to make a strong case for the Defensive Player Of The Year (DPOY) title, someone doubts his credentials.
During an appearance on the “Bully Ball podcast,” DeMarcus Cousins defied, crowning the Timberwolves center with the glorious title. Justifying his point, the T1 League player said, “You can’t have a potential four-time Defensive Player of the Year that doesn’t finish games.” Cousins strongly opposed it by stating that if Gobert was the best defender, then he would have stayed on the floor and finished the games.
“There should never be a scenario where you’re not able to fit into the scheme. That doesn’t make sense. So how do we keep awarding this guy who can’t even stay on the floor in the playoffs? We seen it time and time again,” added the 33-year-old.
Though Rudy had a tough time settling in Minnesota, his masterclass defense throughout the season reminded everyone why he was awarded the DPOY title three times before. Gobert is averaging 14 points, 12.9 rebounds, just behind rebound-master Domantos Sabonis, 1.3 assists, and 2.1 blocks per game while shooting at 66.2% from the floor. While Cousins has his doubts on Gobert, there is someone who came to his defense.
Rudy Gobert gets Victor Wembanyama backing
If there is anyone who comes close to claiming the DPOY title from Rudy Gobert this season, then it is none other than the rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama. With his record-breaking praise-worthy season, Wemby became a worthy contender in the DPOY race. Despite his team, the San Antonio Spurs, falling apart, Wemby never stopped showing his brilliance on the hardwood. His humbleness in admitting the key difference between him and Gobert, and extending support to his rival contender now in this crucial time makes him one of a kind.
Showing what a healthy competitor he is, Wembanyama said, “It would be far from a robbery if Rudy won it. However, I think a lot has changed since the start of the season. Regardless, it has been a great fight. What satisfies me the most is having two Frenchmen at the top of the rankings.”
With his statement, Wemby proved Kevin Durant right, who feels the rookie could be the future face of the NBA. The 7’4″ center had an incredible individual season, averaging 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.2 steals and 3.6 blocks, earning him the NBA blocks leader title.
