Rudy Gobert, a four-time Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY), faced mounting criticism heading into the 2024 NBA Playoffs for his perceived inability to guard perimeter players. However, Gobert silenced those critics with an impressive playoff performance, holding perimeter players to just 7-24 shooting, a staggering 29.1% from the field.
Detractors argued that the towering center struggled when isolated on the perimeter, often leaving him vulnerable against quicker, more agile guards and wings. This stat highlights how effective Gobert was in those key matchups, proving that he can guard more than just the paint.
Gobert faced a gauntlet of elite perimeter players throughout the playoffs. In the first round against the Phoenix Suns, he was tasked with defending the likes of Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal, and Devin Booker — three of the most dangerous offensive players in the league.
While Durant had his moments, as expected from a two-time Finals MVP and one of the best scorers in NBA history, Gobert held his own, forcing Beal and Booker into tough shots and contested looks. His length and anticipation helped disrupt their rhythm, even if he couldn’t completely stop a player like Durant from scoring. The fact that he limited the Suns’ dynamic backcourt to poor shooting percentages speaks to his defensive adaptability.
In the second round against the Denver Nuggets, Gobert faced Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr., both of whom thrived in Denver’s free-flowing offensive system. Gobert was a key part of limiting their effectiveness, challenging their shots at the perimeter and using his wingspan to contest jumpers. Though Murray had his moments, especially in late-game situations, Gobert’s ability to contest cleanly made life difficult for Denver’s shooters.
The Western Conference Finals presented perhaps his toughest challenge in Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving of the Dallas Mavericks. Doncic, known for his crafty playmaking and step-back threes, managed to hit a game-winner over Gobert in Game 2, a memorable moment that showcased Luka’s brilliance. But overall, Gobert held Doncic and Irving to tough shots, forcing them to take contested jumpers and preventing them from getting easy looks at the basket.
Throughout the playoffs, Rudy Gobert’s defense on perimeter players was a significant asset to his team. His 7-24 defensive stat on perimeter players not only demonstrates his capability but also shifts the narrative about his versatility as a defender.
While no one expects Gobert to lock down players like Durant or Doncic entirely, the fact that he limited perimeter scorers to under 30% shooting is a testament to his evolution and commitment to improving his game in high-pressure situations. Gobert has shown he can no longer be pigeonholed as a liability on the perimeter, proving his value on both ends of the court during the 2024 NBA Playoffs.
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