Rudy Gobert goes 0-for-13: “Dunk it!”
Gobert is struggling offensively, and Minnesota needs more from him. Finch’s advice? Fewer layups, more dunks
Rudy Gobert certainly has the height to dunk, yet early this season, the Minnesota Timberwolves center seems to have forgotten how useful that can be. So much so that his coach, Chris Finch, has publicly called on him to be more aggressive around the rim.
The problem was particularly evident in the 119-114 loss to the Golden State Warriors, a game in which Gobert managed just one point, 4 rebounds and a steal. That performance came amid a difficult shooting stretch in which he has gone 0-for-13 from the field.
After the game, the Frenchman admitted he has repeatedly asked himself the same question Minnesota fans are probably asking.
Sometimes I ask myself, too: “Why didn’t I dunk it?” The most important thing is to respond, be strong and decisive. If I want to dunk, I have to do it. If they foul me and it gets called, that’s fine. I have to be more decisive, more balanced and more composed
Rudy Gobert
Chris Finch on Gobert: “He needs to try to dunk more”
It isn’t just a matter of shot selection. According to Finch, Gobert is approaching contact around the basket too cautiously, making finishes more complicated than they need to be.
I’m seeing very little extension, his arms tucked in too much and a lot of tentative shots. I think he needs to extend more and, honestly, try to dunk more often. He’s trying to handle contact the wrong way.
Chris Finch
Through the first six games of the season, Gobert is averaging 6.6 points and 12.2 rebounds. His contribution on the glass remains important, but Minnesota needs more offensively, especially with fewer scoring options available.
With Edwards out and two consecutive losses behind them, Minnesota can’t afford to wait too long. The Timberwolves need points from Gobert, too, and his assignment against San Antonio will be anything but easy. On the other side will be a certain Victor Wembanyama.