Story perspectives

Timberwolves Coach Hails Gobert's Defense and Locker-Room Impact

8/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch said Rudy Gobert is a great teammate and floor raiser.
Finch said Gobert’s mistakes attract far more visible criticism than his high-level defensive work.
He added that Gobert has become more mature in handling opponents scoring against him.
Finch credited guard Anthony Edwards for creating a supportive locker-room that encourages Gobert, who is driven by pride, confident and considered a first-ballot Hall of Famer.

History

Historical Context

In 2004 the Detroit Pistons, coached by Larry Brown and anchored by Ben Wallace, captured their third NBA title by limiting opponents to just 80.7 points per game in the playoffs and holding the Los Angeles Lakers to 68 points in Game 3. Their defensive blueprint inspired later teams such as the Minnesota Timberwolves, who rely on Rudy Gobert’s rim protection under coach Chris Finch.

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Story summary

Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch said Rudy Gobert is a great teammate and floor raiser.
Finch said Gobert’s mistakes attract far more visible criticism than his high-level defensive work.
He added that Gobert has become more mature in handling opponents scoring against him.
Finch credited guard Anthony Edwards for creating a supportive locker-room that encourages Gobert, who is driven by pride, confident and considered a first-ballot Hall of Famer.

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