Rudy Gobert failed to score in the Minnesota Timberwolves' recent loss to the Chicago Bulls, missing all seven of his shots from the field. The 0-for-7 outing added to Gobert’s ongoing struggles to finish around the rim this season.
Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch did not mince words after the game when asked about Gobert’s scoring problems. “Because he hasn’t been able to finish. He’s getting stripped, he’s missing layups, he’s not finishing strong,” Finch said. “He’s gotta get on balance, collect and finish strong. Sometimes it’s gonna be through contact. We need him to get his finishing back around the paint.”
Gobert’s difficulties have persisted over several games. A few weeks earlier, Finch had noted similar issues after a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers in which Gobert shot 0-for-9. “We’ve got to find him a little more cleanly. We’ve not been able to do that. He’s got to catch and finish better,” Finch explained. “He had 16 chances in and around the paint in the Cleveland game, didn’t finish well. I think he’s got to get back and play with a little bit more force down there and we have to find him a little cleaner at times.”
The Timberwolves are currently managing without Anthony Edwards, who remains sidelined. Gobert’s struggles have left the team lacking an effective presence inside, which contributed to their defeat by the Bulls.
Footage from the game showed Gobert’s layup hitting the bottom of the backboard, a moment that captured the frustration surrounding his recent performances. Finch’s comments underline the urgency for Gobert to improve his finishing as the Timberwolves try to maintain competitiveness this season.
Gobert typically commands the interior space as the biggest player on the floor. Finch suggested that if Gobert can regain his scoring touch and physicality near the basket, it would open opportunities for the rest of the team.
The Timberwolves face increasing pressure to find solutions while Edwards recovers. Gobert’s recent form raises questions about how the team will address their inside scoring and defensive presence. Finch’s frank remarks signal that the coach expects Gobert to take responsibility for turning his season around.
According to Yahoo Sports.
