Wolves star's status for play-in game in doubt

Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert. Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

Timberwolves star's status for must-win play-in game in doubt

Originally posted on Sportsnaut | By Vincent Frank | Last updated 4/13/23

Star center Rudy Gobert sat out the Minnesota Timberwolves’ loss to the Los Angeles Lakers in Tuesday’s NBA play-in game.

Gobert was suspended for the game after getting into a physical altercation with teammate Kyle Anderson on the bench in Sunday’s regular-season finale.

His absence was felt as Minnesota blew a double-digit lead to lose by the score of 108-102 in overtime.

With the Wolves now facing a must-win game at home against the Oklahoma City Thunder Friday evening, Gobert’s status for that game is up in the air. Head coach Chris Finch told reporters on Thursday that Gobert is still going through back spasms, and his status is not yet known for the game.

For his part, Gobert also told reporters that he would not have been able to play against the Lakers even if he wasn’t suspended.

Rudy Gobert injury news and impact on the Minnesota Timberwolves

Friday night’s game against Oklahoma City is win-or-go-home. The winner advances to the NBA playoffs to take on the top-seeded Denver Nuggets. The loser will see its season end.

Acquired in a blockbuster trade with the Utah Jazz last offseason, Gobert actually put up his lowest point total since the 2015-16 season. Although, his ability on defense was felt, as fellow big man Karl-Anthony Towns isn’t an elite defender.

Rudy Gobert stats (2022-23): 13.4 PPG, 11.6 RPG, 1.4 BPG, 66% shooting

Interestingly enough, Minnesota was 8-4 in the 12 regular-season games Gobert missed. The team posted a mere 34-36 when he suited up.

Even then, having Gobert on the court to compete with the likes of studs such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey Friday night would loom large. If not, the onus will continue falling on Towns inside.

This article first appeared on Sportsnaut and was syndicated with permission.

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