Finch Backs Gobert for Fifth Defensive Player of the Year as Northwest Updates Emerge
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Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch declared Rudy Gobert the clear front-runner for the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year award, telling reporters the veteran center is “far and away the leader.” Gobert, already a four-time winner, anchors Minnesota’s league-leading defense, and Finch pointed to the club’s on/off metrics as evidence of his impact. Despite Finch’s stance, betting markets currently list Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama as the prohibitive favorite, with Thunder big man Chet Holmgren in the second spot.
Finch underscored Gobert’s individual prowess, noting the 31-year-old’s isolation numbers have been “at the top or near the top all year,” and adding, “There’s nothing he can’t do defensively.”
Jazz’s Sensabaugh Eyes Growth
Utah swingman Brice Sensabaugh, the No. 28 pick in the 2023 draft, averaged 15.6 points in March and scored 17 against Milwaukee on Saturday. While the rookie has flashed offensive potential, he acknowledged to the Salt Lake Tribune that turnovers and defense remain concerns. “I have to keep searching for those catch-and-shoot opportunities,” the 20-year-old said, adding that shooting must “be the driving force” of his game. Sensabaugh is under contract for one more season at $4,862,237 before hitting restricted free agency.
McCain Reflects on Trade Shock
Guard Jared McCain admitted he was “blindsided” by February’s deal that sent him from Philadelphia to Oklahoma City. “I definitely thought it could work,” the rookie told CBS Sports of his fit with the 76ers. The first-year guard has adapted quickly with the Thunder, averaging 11.7 points in 19 minutes across 13 games since the move.
Wallace Building All-Defensive Resume
Thunder rookie Cason Wallace has strengthened his bid for an All-Defensive Team spot. Sports Illustrated’s Rylan Stiles highlighted advanced metrics that place the 20-year-old among the league’s most effective perimeter stoppers this season.
Source: Hoops Rumors
