Rudy Gobert emerged as an unlikely hero who would win the Lakers 103-96 in Game 5 in the Minnesota series clinch.
The French Center provided monster performances with 27 points and 24 rebounds, adding two blocks as the Timberwolves punched the ticket in the second round.
Rudy Gobert’s dominant two-way contribution proved to be critical as Minnesota closed Los Angeles in an impressive way.
One of the highlight moments of the game came in the second quarter when Goatbert soared for a fierce dunk over Lukadon Sic, adding another chapter to his continued rivalry.
The four-time defensive player of the year kept his focus large when asked about making Don Sic better after a history of competition, including three-pointers who won in Don Sic’s famous game via three-pointers who won in Don Sic’s famous game in Game 2 of the 2024 Western Conference Finals.
“You feel great, but my proof is not to defeat a particular person.
“It was about winning the championship, and that’s why we had a little more to do,” Goat explained, turning his attention to the team’s championship aspirations.
Rather than staying with his personal rival, Gobert praised his teammates and highlighted the underdog mentality that pushed Minnesota’s playoff runs.
“We have a lot of people who are vulnerable. They’ve underestimated their careers. For example, Mike Conley, a guy like Julius,” Gortbert said.
Gobert also pointed out Timberwolves emerging superstar Anthony Edwards.
“Obviously Ali is a young superstar with plenty to prove, but we have a lot of people who have never been handed anything,” he added, highlighting the shoulder tip-on approach that has fueled the team’s incredible playoff success.
With Gobert locking up his defenses and making a significant contribution to the offense, Minnesota is waiting for his conference final opponent as he continues his pursuit of an unexpected championship.