“He Might Feel Like I’m Trying to Cut off His Fun”: Rudy Gobert Continually Urges Anthony Edwards to Stay ‘Locked in’

As one of the more seasoned players in the Minnesota Timberwolves camp, Rudy Gobert has the additional role of mentoring his young teammates. The Frenchman recently shared that one of his responsibilities is to make sure Anthony Edwards stays focused during games.

Gobert keeps Edwards “locked in” by persistently engaging with him. The big man ensures Ant stays grounded, finding a balance between having fun and staying disciplined.

“It’s great to watch him have fun. I’m already kind of the annoying guy that tells him to stay locked in and he might feel like I’m trying to cut off his fun, but I know him so well. I know that he has to find that balance between having fun [and] staying disciplined,” Gobert said.

Gobert on Edwards: It’s great to watch him have fun. I’m already kind of the annoying guy that tells him to stay locked in & he might feel like I’m trying to cut off his fun, but I know him so well. I know that he has to find that balance between having fun, staying disciplined.”

— Chris Hine (@ChristopherHine) January 14, 2025

Edwards, 23, is already one of the league’s most lethal scorers. However, his excitement can sometimes affect his ability to stay composed across the duration of the game. The T-Wolves star has a playful personality that can often be at odds with his killer instinct.

There have also been moments where his emotions have led to reckless decisions. So Gobert takes his job seriously. He steps in and keeps Edwards grounded during games, ensuring the team secures the win.

Gobert’s remarks came after Edwards’ stellar performance in Tuesday night’s victory over the Washington Wizards. Ant delivered an explosive 41-point game, along with 6 rebounds and 7 assists. A huge factor behind Edwards’ dominance was his ability to punish the Wizards for the decision to not double-team him.

“I don’t think it was as obvious as all the other games. I was passive the first three quarters and I realized, ‘Oh, they not sending two to me,’” Edwards said after the game.

Edwards had recently went viral in the basketball community for his comment on opponents using double-team strategies to contain him. That drew criticism. Since then, the 6ft 4” guard has clearly adjusted his style of play. Over the past few games, he has strived to balance being ball-dominant with effectively finding open teammates.