Rudy Gobert, the Anti

The Wolves took the advantage in their series against the Nuggets last night by winning Game 3 (113-96), a feat that would not have been possible without the immense defensive performance of Rudy Gobert on Nikola Jokic. The four-time DPOY is currently dominating the three-time MVP, showcasing the level of this duel.

With shooting at 15 for 46, 3 for 17 from 3-point range, only the second time this season that he shot less than 40% in two consecutive games, Nikola Jokic has been struggling since Game 2 against the Wolves. Rudy Gobert has been a major factor in unsettling the Serbian Nugget.

Jokic, despite being particularly inaccurate in these two games, even on open shots, Gobert continues to make an impact. Always present to apply physical pressure at the right time and disrupt the habits of the number 15. Jokic himself acknowledges this without directly naming his opponent:

“Clearly, as I said, they are big, long, they make you think through their ability to contest. They deserve credit, they are really good.”

For those who prefer to highlight the collective defense of the Wolves, it definitely deserves recognition, but Gobert is definitely the leader. When going head-to-head with the Frenchman, Niko is 8 for 29 in shooting. In case the stats were not enough to convince you.

Gobert is fully embracing what he considers the biggest challenge of his career:

“He is the best attacker I have had to defend in my entire career. I am simply trying to take on this challenge and make it as tough for him as possible… I continue to make sure that he has to earn every point he scores.”

Rudy Gobert’s defensive masterclass is on full display, showing his prowess on the court. Excited to see if this performance can be maintained throughout the series, as the Nuggets are now trailing 2-1 in the series and the Joker will be looking to play all his cards!