Rudy Gobert

In the strength-on-strength clash that presented Rudy Gobert’s Hall of Fame-caliber rim protection skills against the Toronto Raptors’ No. 1-ranked frequency on in-the-paint shots, the Minnesota Timberwolves were delighted to learn that size became the great equalizer. In introducing the Raptors to more rejections than a bad pickup line at a bar, Gobert — through quick steps, leaps, and even twists and turns — whacks D.J. Carton’s attempt off the glass, only to find the ball ricocheting into Jamison Battle’s possession. Summoning the energy to teach the Raptors’ young group another lesson, Gobert rearrives, swatting away a second shot with vigor to keep hold on Minnesota’s late-game 16-point lead. Gobert unleashed the full repertoire in October 26, 2024’s win, mixing in alley-oop jams, occasional heads-up passes, a game-high 10 contested shots, and a shooting percentage of just 31.6 percent allowed (on 19 shot attempts). The box score told a similar story, as the seven-time All-Defense Team selection registered 15 points (on six-of-eight shooting), 12 rebounds, one steal, four blocks, and a game-high +20 plus-minus.