This seemingly simple question sparks complex discussions about the modern NBA, the evolving role of centers, and the delicate balance between offense and defense.
There's no denying Gobert's defensive impact. Standing at 7'1" with a wingspan exceeding 7'9", he presents a nearly impenetrable wall at the rim. His career averages of 14.7 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game speak volumes. Opponents think twice before driving into the paint, knowing Gobert lurks as a shot-swatting menace.
This defensive presence has been instrumental for the Utah Jazz (now Minnesota Timberwolves), consistently ranking them among the league's best defensive units. Gobert's ability to anchor the paint allows his teammates to gamble on steals and contest passes on the perimeter, knowing he's there to clean up mistakes.
However, Gobert's offensive limitations are undeniable. While a capable finisher around the rim, his struggles with the three-point shot are well documented. Throughout his career, he's attempted a minuscule number of threes, converting at a dismal rate. This deficiency confines him to the paint and makes him predictable offensively.
The modern NBA prioritizes spacing and versatility. Opposing teams sag off Gobert on the perimeter, clogging the paint and daring him to shoot. This creates spacing issues for his teammates, hindering the Jazz's (Timberwolves') offensive flow.
It's important to recognize that Gobert offers offensive value beyond his shooting. He's a skilled pick-and-roll partner, setting thunderous screens and finishing lobs with authority. His offensive rebounding creates second-chance opportunities, and his passing ability can surprise unsuspecting defenses.
Gobert's mere presence in the paint draws defenders, opening driving lanes for teammates. While not a primary scorer, he can create scoring opportunities for others.
There have been whispers about Gobert working on extending his range. Offseason training videos showcase him attempting threes, sparking hope for a more versatile offensive skillset. However, translating practice success to in-game consistency remains a challenge.
The NBA offensive landscape has shifted towards a perimeter-oriented approach. Teams value spacing and the ability to stretch the floor with three-point shooting. This begs the question: is a reliable jumpshot mandatory for today's centers?
The answer isn't black and white. While a consistent jumpshot unlocks offensive possibilities, there are still successful centers who thrive without it. Think of Andre Drummond, another elite rebounder and rim protector, whose offensive contributions come primarily inside the paint.
This is where the debate gets interesting. Adding a consistent jumpshot could significantly elevate Gobert's offensive impact. He'd force opposing teams to respect him beyond the paint, creating driving lanes for teammates and opening up scoring opportunities for himself. It would also improve the Jazz's (Timberwolves') spacing, making their offense more dynamic and unpredictable.
However, devoting significant practice time and focus to developing a reliable jumpshot could potentially come at the expense of Gobert's defensive prowess. Maintaining his elite rim protection requires constant refinement of positioning, timing, and shot-blocking technique. Splitting his focus could lead to a decline in the very skill that makes him invaluable.
There's no definitive answer. Players like Brook Lopez, once known primarily for their interior presence, have added respectable three-point shots later in their careers. This offers a glimmer of hope for Gobert's development. However, replicating Lopez's success requires dedication, a natural shooting aptitude, and a system that allows him to utilize his newfound skillset.
Gobert's shooting limitations have undoubtedly impacted the Utah Jazz's (now Minnesota Timberwolves') offensive potential. Despite boasting talented scorers like Donovan Mitchell, their offense sometimes stagnated due to Gobert's inability to consistently space the floor. This, in turn, limited their offensive ceiling.
The trade to the Minnesota Timberwolves presents a new opportunity. Pairing Gobert with Karl-Anthony Towns, a skilled scorer with a three-point threat, could alleviate some of the spacing concerns. However, maximizing their potential hinges on Gobert developing a more well-rounded offensive repertoire.
The key lies in maximizing Gobert's strengths while mitigating his weaknesses. He remains an elite rim protector, and the Jazz (Timberwolves) shouldn't abandon this defensive identity. Here's how they can utilize him effectively:
By striking this balance, Gobert can remain a defensive force while contributing more offensively.
So, can Rudy Gobert shoot? While his current three-point shooting is statistically negligible, he's shown glimpses of improvement in practice. Whether he develops a consistent shot remains to be seen.
However, the bigger question is: does it truly matter? Gobert's defensive value is undeniable. If the Jazz (Timberwolves) can maximize his strengths and find ways to integrate him effectively within their offensive system, his shooting limitations might not be a deal-breaker.
The NBA landscape continues to evolve, and the role of the center is constantly adapting. Rudy Gobert's future success hinges on his ability to embrace this evolution and find the right balance between his defensive dominance and offensive contributions.
