NBA Fines Rudy Gobert Again, Proving it Pays to Be Jamal Murray

This isn’t the first time Rudy Gobert has been fined for making a money related gesture this season. Coincidentally, both of the instances have come in games officiated by controversial referee Scott Foster.

The Timberwolves got out to a hot start during Game 4, but quickly wilted before letting emotions take over. Questionable foul calls were handed out, and there were also multiple instances in which the officials simply let both teams go at it.

Emotions can bring out best in the Minnesota Timberwolves big man

Gobert certainly is one to let his emotions get the best of him at times, and that isn’t something Chris Finch can have from the Defensive Player of the Year in Game 5.

A significant key for the Timberwolves during Game 5 will be to control the emotions and force frustrations. Flustering Murray, hopefully not to the point of another heating pack tantrum, can only help Minnesota’s swarming defense. On the flip side, Gobert must stay within himself and allow that presence to permeate throughout the roster.

Anthony Edwards was incredible during Game 4, and he’ll need a much more impressive performance from his teammates if the Timberwolves are going to return home with a series lead.

Facing the defending champs, it should never have been expected to be a quick series, but Finch and Micah Nori can’t be thrilled to watch the 2-0 lead built on the road evaporate entirely at home.

If the Timberwolves can grab a big road victory in Game 5, they will again return to the Target Center with momentum, and an opportunity to close out the series. For a fan base looking to get behind this team, Game 5, Gobert, and the entire roster are a culmination of stakes that could not be higher.