Anthony Edwards has made it clear that the Minnesota Timberwolves’ defensive identity will continue to revolve around Rudy Gobert.
Speaking recently, the All-Star guard said the team’s focus is on restoring the French center to the elite level that has defined much of his career.
“Yeah, for sure. Most definitely,” Edwards said, via HoopsHype. “We’re trying to get Rudy back to being that Defensive Player of the Year, Jaden being on that All-NBA team, and even myself. Just everybody playing their part—Jules guarding at a high level, Naz guarding at a high level. You know how Donte plays—he’s always super energetic on the defensive end, shooting the passing lanes and stuff like that. So just everybody being connected on that side. I think we’ll be all right.”
Gobert, who has earned four NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards (2018, 2019, 2021, 2024), remains one of the league’s most consistent rim protectors. At 7-foot-1, the veteran continues to anchor Minnesota’s paint defense, averaging 10.9 rebounds, 1.4 blocks, and 12.0 points this season.
His career includes seven All-Defensive First Team selections and a league-leading 14.7 rebounds per game during the 2021–22 campaign. Though his numbers dipped slightly last year, Gobert’s presence still shapes how opponents attack the Timberwolves inside.
Edwards’ remarks highlight the broader commitment from Minnesota’s roster to strengthen its defensive communication and energy. Players like Jaden McDaniels and Donte DiVincenzo are integral to that effort, both known for their versatility and perimeter coverage.
Veterans such as Julius Randle and Joe Ingles, along with the continued development of Naz Reid, gives head coach Chris Finch a balanced lineup capable of switching and protecting the rim.
