Before the Minnesota Timberwolves began their 2024-25 season against the Los Angeles Lakers, they decided to make a big commitment to one of their core players. Rudy Gobert and the team are agreeing to a three-year, $115 million contract extension, according to ESPN's Shams Charania.

The four-time Defensive Player of the Year is declining his $46.6 million player option for 2025 and will instead earn a starting salary that ranges between $30-40 million, per Yossi Gozlan. This development could allow the Timberwolves to stay under the luxury tax when they presumably try to re-sign Naz Reid. Karl-Anthony Towns may be playing elsewhere, but this organization is still moving with definite purpose.

Gobert's new contract, which includes a player option and trade kicker, via Charania, comes amid ongoing criticism from current and former players, namely Shaquille O'Neal. Minnesota obviously has no qualms about his ability, however.

Rudy Gobert helped the Timberwolves take a big step forward

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Despite his reputation for being exposed in the playoffs, the three-time All-Star played a major role in the breakout success the Wolves achieved last season. He averaged 14.0 points, 12.9 rebounds and 2.1 blocks in 76 games in 2023-24 while doing his part to give the team a strong defensive identity. Anthony Edwards and Towns understandably commanded the lion's share of the acclaim, but Gobert provided crucial stability in the interior.

The French big man is being rewarded for his efforts and will now earn $153 million across the next four seasons. Because the Timberwolves are adding newcomers Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo into the mix, having a reliable rim protector whom head coach Chris Finch can trust is essential.

Rudy Gobert will look to continue filling that role, regardless of what O'Neal and others think of him. A hefty paycheck ought to make it even easier to block out the noise. He should be in high spirits during Minnesota's opening showdown with the Lakers.