Ex-NBA Star Questions Rudy Gobert’s DPOY Credentials

Rudy Gobert is a four-time Defensive Player of the Year.

Gobert’s Defensive Skills:

Standing at 7-foot-1, Rudy Gobert has been known as one of the NBA’s top rim protectors. Most of his DPOY awards came when he played for the Utah Jazz under Quin Snyder, who designed a system that directed ball-handlers into Gobert’s path in the paint.

However, offenses have recently found ways to exploit Gobert. By involving him in high pick-and-roll plays, they force him to defend closer to the perimeter. His limited hip flexibility and slow lateral movement make it hard for him to guard effectively outside the paint.

Criticism from Dwight Howard:

Due to these weaknesses, former NBA champion Dwight Howard argues that Gobert doesn’t deserve his DPOY titles. “He’s 7-2, so when you’re 7-2 and you’re playing with athletic guys, you don’t have to do nothing but clean up their mistakes or just being big in the paint,” Howard said on “Gil’s Arena” podcast. “I don’t see him being an elite defender. I feel like he’s a great team defender, but for what he did to get those Defensive Player of the Years, I don’t see it.”

https://youtube.com/watch?v=oCO4Ur5aE9w%3Fshowinfo%3D0

Gobert with Minnesota Timberwolves:

Since joining the Minnesota Timberwolves, Gobert is part of a strong double-big lineup alongside Karl-Anthony Towns. This pairing helps cover up some of his defensive flaws when he’s pulled away from the paint.

When focused on protecting the rim, Gobert remains a solid defender due to his size and wingspan. He can still deter shots and make teams hesitate before attacking inside. However, more consistency is needed for him to be considered among the best defenders overall.

Fans often wonder if Howard’s critique holds some truth