Rudy Gobert Rallying Timberwolves: We Must Set the Tone in Game 2

Rudy Gobert is aiming to replicate the success after the Minnesota Timberwolves secured a 1-0 advantage in their best-of-seven matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers.

Following the team’s practice session on Monday, the 32-year-old French center shared his thoughts on the upcoming Game 2 of the Western Conference Quarterfinals.

“We’re not aiming to merely match their intensity; we intend to elevate it. Our focus should be on our performance. We recognize their physical style of play. While we’re uncertain about the adjustments they might implement, we are aware that they will come at us with physicality. It’s up to us to respond in kind,” he emphasized.

During the opening game of the 2025 NBA Playoffs presented by Google, Gobert logged two points, six rebounds, one block, and one assist in 24 minutes on the court.

“Although my scoring chances are limited, my teammates are finding themselves with open looks,” the Saint-Quentin native reflected on the Lakers’ defensive effort, “This is where our team shines. We possess a variety of offensive options, which forces them to make tough decisions.”

Game 2 is scheduled for Tuesday at the crypto.com Arena. Except for Rob Dillingham, who is dealing with a right ankle sprain, all players, including Luka Garza from Bosnia and Jesse Edwards from the Netherlands, are in good health.

The Lakers, led by Slovenian star Luka Doncic, are looking to even the series before heading to Minneapolis for Game 3 on Friday. On the injury front, German player Maxi Kleber is out due to right foot surgery, leaving head coach JJ Redick without his services.

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