Rudy Gobert made a number of key plays down the stretch to help the Utah Jazz secure a 112-107 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday night.
Following the game, Donovan Mitchell gave huge praise to his teammate and even vouched for the Frenchman to make his first All-Star team this season, via Eric Walden of The Salt Lake Tribune.
Donovan Mitchell, on Rudy Gobert: “He brought it all. He cleans up a lot of our mistakes. … At the end of the game, Rudy can play 1 through 5. I’m convinced he let guys lay it up at the beginning of the game so he could block it late. He’s an All-Star.” pic.twitter.com/YxEMZ5aSUm
— Eric Walden (@tribjazz) January 26, 2020
With the game still hanging in the balance in the final minute, Gobert made a crucial tip in to break a 104-all tie. With 38.5 seconds remaining and the Jazz up two, the 7-foot-1 big man blocked a layup attempt from Delon Wright that could have tied the game at that point. He also helped seal the win with a game-securing rebound and a free throw make with 11 seconds to go.
Overall, Gobert finished with 22 points, 17 rebounds, and five blocks, on a perfect 8-of-8 shooting night. He also made 6-of-9 from the charity stripe.
Over the past few seasons, Gobert has certainly had a case in making the All-Star team. Many believed, including himself, that he should have made the 12-man selection last season, but was unfortunately left off the list again.
This year, it seems like Gobert has a strong chance to finally make his All-Star debut. Again, however, it will be up to the coaches on whether they will eventually give him the nod this season.
There's an argument to be made whether Utah is deserving of two All-Star spots, with none other than Donovan Mitchell also turning in an All-Star worthy campaign.
The Jazz is now winners of 20 of their last 23 games, and Rudy Gobert has certainly been one of the key forces driving their magnificent run through this stretch of the season.
While many perceive the All-Star game as mostly a showcase of offensive talents, the two-time Defensive Player of the Year certainly deserves a spot given the way he has led the Jazz to the second-best record in the Western Conference this season.
Follow Us
Subscribe