Timberwolves’ Gobert Says Teammates Who Don’t Hustle Should Sit
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MINNEAPOLIS — Center Rudy Gobert questioned the Minnesota Timberwolves’ commitment following a 119-115 defeat to the struggling New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night, saying uninspired players deserve to be benched.
“I’m talking strictly about effort,” the four-time Defensive Player of the Year told reporters. “If we want to contend for a championship, the energy we showed tonight is unacceptable.”
Gobert did not single out anyone by name, but fellow stars Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle combined for 59 points while the club’s defense faltered. Zion Williamson scored 29 points, most of them at the rim, as Minnesota allowed its eighth loss in 15 games. Over that stretch, the Timberwolves rank 18th in defensive efficiency.
The 31-year-old center urged the coaching staff to remove any player who fails to compete. “If the guys on the floor aren’t giving their all, the coaches have to make a change,” he said. “It’s not easy, but without effort you can’t win, no matter how talented you are.”
Gobert also held himself accountable. “Start with me,” he added. “If I’m not playing hard, take me out. Our leaders have to set the tone; scoring 50 points doesn’t matter if we don’t defend.”
Minnesota is 32-21 and sixth in the Western Conference, sitting just above the play-in cutoff. “We want to raise the trophy in June,” Gobert said. “This has to be a lesson we learn right now.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
