NBA
Rudy Gobert Is Named The 2018 DPOY
Rudy Gobert of the Utah Jazz is the recipient of the 2018 KIA NBA “Defensive Player of the Year” award. His defensive skills include rebounding and blocking shots.
Part of a system that makes Utah Jazz one of the most formidable defensive teams in the league. Rudy Gobert is the defensive cornerstone of the Utah Jazz.
Utah Jazz Dominator
Rudy Gobert has been a crucial element to Utah’s defensive domination. Rudy Gobert missed 26 games during the 2017-2018 NBA season due to injury. The Utah Jazz won 42.3% of the time during his 26 game absence due to injuries. The Jazz won 66.1% of their games with a healthy Gobert on the court.
Stature Is Everything
Rudy Gobert stands at 7’1″ with a wingspan of 7’9″. Which is essential for a defensive player in the center position. Rudy Gobert is one of the more dominant centers in the league. Defense is key to a well-oiled machine and Gobert is fundamentally sound in Utah’s mechanism.
Rudy Gobert’s Defensive Statistics
Center Rudy Gobert was the 27th overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft by the Denver Nuggets. He was then traded to the Utah Jazz. Gobert is the 2016-2017 NBA blocks leader. He’s also a two-time NBA All-Defensive First Team.
Gobert has been pretty sound offensively and defensively. He shot 65% from the field while averaging 13.2 points, 10.7 rebounds, 1 assist, and 2.3 blocks this past season.
There’s still a lot to look forward to in Rudy Gobert’s NBA career. He’s a valuable D-Man who contributes efficiently and consistently with athleticism and ease. His confidence in his position as center for the Utah Jazz is another key element in his defensive skills.
Rudy Gobert is most certainly deserving of the 2018 KIA NBA “Defensive Player of the Year.” Seemingly both the NBA and fans would agree. Today was also Gobert’s birthday and now he has two reasons for celebration.
