Despite his Minnesota Timberwolves’ victory in Game 2 against the Denver Nuggets (119-114), Rudy Gobert couldn’t hide his frustration in the post-game press conference on Tuesday. The reason for his discontent was his ranking in the Defensive Player of the Year award, which was ultimately won by Victor Wembanyama, and for which Gobert finished in fourth place.
“I have nothing more to add, I know what I’m worth,” Gobert stated. “This is not the first time I’ve been disrespected, and it probably won’t be the last. If you want to disrespect greatness, take it for granted, it doesn’t matter, they will eventually measure the impact.”
Ranked behind Chet Holmgren of the OKC Thunder and Ausar Thompson of the Detroit Pistons, the four-time award winner feels he was overlooked. This sentiment is understandable, especially considering his defensive performance against Nikola Jokic, widely considered the best offensive player in the world, during Tuesday’s game. Jokic shot a mere 1-of-8 when being defended by the French center.
Rudy Gobert’s Disappointment with Defensive Player of the Year Ranking
Minnesota Timberwolves player Rudy Gobert voiced his strong dissatisfaction following the announcement of the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year award. Despite his team’s win against the Denver Nuggets in their second game, Gobert, who finished fourth in the voting, expressed that he felt disrespected by the outcome.
The prestigious award was presented to Victor Wembanyama, a compatriot of Gobert. In his post-game remarks, Gobert conveyed his feelings, stating, “I have nothing more to add, I know what I’m worth.” He further elaborated on his sentiment of being disrespected, adding, “This is not the first time I’ve been disrespected, and it probably won’t be the last. If you want to disrespect greatness, take it for granted, it doesn’t matter, they will eventually measure the impact.”
Gobert’s ranking placed him behind Chet Holmgren of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Ausar Thompson of the Detroit Pistons. Considering his impactful defensive efforts, particularly his performance against Nikola Jokic in the recent game where Jokic struggled offensively while being guarded by Gobert, the veteran player’s frustration is palpable.
