The Minnesota Timberwolves are not having the season they would have expected during the free agency. During the offseason, Minnesota went ahead with a five-player, five first-round picks trade for Rudy Gobert. Many might argue that it was a steep price for Gobert. However, the Wolves felt it was right at that time.
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Hoping that he made a solid twin tower with Karl Anthony-Towns, the Wolves went all-in for the 3x DPOY. Early in the season, the trade felt like a big mistake. However, as of late, things have started to get better for the Wolves.
With tonight’s win over Luka Doncic and the Mavericks, the Wolves have crossed the .500 mark and sit in the 8th spot in the West. They are on a three-game winning streak. Along with the wins, Gobert also found another way to bring cheer to the Target Center employees.
Rudy Gobert spent over $22,500 as Christmas gift for over 450 employees
It would be an understatement if I said Rudy Gobert had a shaky start in Minnesota. Things had gotten so bad for the 3x DPOY that he was getting booed in his own home arena. He even addressed the situation, which got Shaq mocking him as well.
Rudy Gobert says he feels the Wolves are starting to play better, but took a step back with some mistakes tonight. He also is asking the fans to support them in their struggles rather than boo pic.twitter.com/2dvgNuTjX9
— Jon Krawczynski (@JonKrawczynski) November 22, 2022
However, since then, the Wolves have started to piece things together and have been playing better. While the fans booed the team, the employees always remained loyal, and to thank them for the same, Gobert got all Target Center employees a signed card and $50 each.
More than 450 Target Center employess — ushers, concession workers, change-over, etc. — showed up to a nice little gift tonight. A signed card and $50 from Rudy Gobert, thanking them for all they do for the Wolves.
— Jon Krawczynski (@JonKrawczynski) December 20, 2022
Considering there are over 450 employees, it would cost Gobert over $22,500. Now, factoring that he’s earning $38.17 million this season, this shouldn’t be a big blow for the star.
How has Gobert fared so far in Minnesota?
After a shaky start to the season, Rudy Gobert seems to have found his ground. Over the last ten games, he’s averaging 15.6 points and 11 rebounds on 71.6% shooting from the field. For the season, his numbers have gone up to 12.6 points and 12.1 rebounds on 62% shooting.
As the season progresses and the team gets better acclimatized with each other, fans would hope that Gobert’s numbers improve more. So far he hasn’t been able to bring the defensive punch he was brought in for, and the Wolves require that if they plan to make a playoff run.
