In a recent wave of criticism directed at Minnesota Timberwolves’ star Rudy Gobert, former NBA player Jaren Jackson Sr. has stepped up to defend the embattled center. Gobert, known for his defensive prowess, has faced significant backlash from various quarters, including former and current NBA players.
Jackson, who enjoyed a 12-year career in the NBA, expressed his support for Gobert during an appearance on SiriusXM NBA Radio. He acknowledged the challenges Gobert faces in the modern game, where the role of big men has evolved significantly.
“I feel for him,” Jackson said. “He’s another one that plays defense. It’s not the prettiest part of the game, it’s not the most entertaining, not gonna be on ESPN about his blocks. All of these big guys today, the game has changed. You no longer just sit in the paint… Now these guys gotta move”.
Gobert, a four-time Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY), has been criticized for his perceived lack of versatility and struggles in the postseason, particularly against players like Luka Doncic. Despite these criticisms, Jackson emphasized that Gobert’s defensive contributions are often undervalued.
“I think Rudy is just trying to be the best help side defender he can be,” Jackson continued. “It’s just not appreciated… There are other areas of his game, he probably needs to be better at. As a veteran player, he should be better at other areas of his game, but he’s found his niche, to play defense… I don’t care what people say about him”.
Rudy Gobert has been the target of recent vitriol from former and current NBA players.
Former Guard @JarenSrJackson defends the Minnesota big man with @BgeltzNBA and @SamMitchellNBA. pic.twitter.com/1lWdOezSwS
— SiriusXM NBA Radio (@SiriusXMNBA) September 7, 2024
The criticism of Gobert has been harsh, with former NBA stars like Dwight Howard and Shaquille O’Neal questioning his DPOY credentials and overall impact on the game. O’Neal, in particular, has been vocal, labeling Gobert as one of the worst players in NBA history. However, Jackson’s defense highlights the often-overlooked aspects of Gobert’s game and the changing dynamics of basketball that have made it more challenging for traditional big men to thrive.
Gobert’s performance in the 2024 playoffs showed improvement, but his struggles in the Western Conference Finals against the Dallas Mavericks reignited the criticism. Despite this, Jackson believes that much of the hate directed at Gobert is unwarranted and that his defensive skills deserve recognition.
