Rudy Gobert probably had a great weekend in Cleveland for the All-Star Game, where he had the chance to rub shoulders with the greatest players in history. And at the same time, it was also praised by a major American media and a large panel of renowned journalists!
If the Jazz is no longer as dominant as last season, with a 3rd place in the Western Conference, Rudy Gobert is perhaps having his most successful season in his career. With 15.7 points, 14.8 rebounds and 2.3 blocks on average, he did not steal his place in the All-Star Game. His game is not necessarily the most suitable for this great show, but being there the year of the 75th anniversary of the league must have had a particular importance.
But once again, while this weekend was to be placed under the sign of celebration, respect, and intergenerational sharing, the pivot of Jazz was badly attacked by a rival in the race for the title, who did not hesitate to humiliate him live on television. He’s probably getting used to it, even if these attacks aren’t often justified.
Rudy Gobert Defender of the Year according to 30 journalists!
But if his friends are always so violent towards him, Rudy Gobert retains a particularly flattering image in the American media. The proof, USA Today carried out a major survey of around thirty well-known journalists, and the Frenchman’s name came out first in the race for the title of Defender of the Year. According to these specialists, he would be on his way to a fourth coronation.
During the regular season, the defensive presence of Rudy Gobert is the cornerstone of the Jazz system. If that hasn’t translated into a great playoff campaign yet, the title of Defender of the Year rewards the regular season, and the total domination of Rudy Gobert in the racquet of his team is out of the ordinary as soon as it is measured.
Even if Rudy Gobert does not manage to move his team forward in the playoffs, the journalists do not hold it against him for the title of Defender of the Year. There remains the Jazz system all by itself, which is exceptional enough to be underlined and rewarded. With a fourth title, he would definitely establish himself as one of the best defenders of all time.
Rudy Gobert is not always respected by other NBA players, but specialists know how to recognize his value in the Jazz game and his defensive contribution. He could therefore write a little more history with a fourth DPOY crown.
