Rudy Gobert believes Timberwolves can win the NBA Championship

The VegasInsider team got to talk to Minnesota Timberwolves star and three-time DPOY, Rudy Gobert.

The Frenchman talked about his trade from the Utah Jazz to the Minnesota Timberwolves, how it feels like starting a second NBA career as well as his ambitions with the Timberwolves.

Being at the Timberwolves feels like being in a rookie year

The three-time NBA All-Star mentioned how he feels his move to the Timberwolves is like a ‘second rookie season’, considering he was at the Utah Jazz for nine years.

“I would say that a new cycle in my life and career has started with this change. I'm getting to know a new group, a new organisation and a new city. It's all very exciting.” 

“I was in the same franchise for nine years that I never left. So it's a situation that I've never experienced in the NBA before.” 

“I feel transported back to my rookie year (2013) when I got to know everything new.”

- Rudy Gobert on joining the Timberwolves

Gobert was acquired by the Timberwolves in a trade that saw Patrick Beverley, Malik Beasley, Jarred Vanderbilt, Leandro Bolmaro go the other way, in addition to draft rights to Walker Kessler and first round draft picks in 2026.

The 2021-22 NBA rebounding leader talked about how it was not his decision to join the Timberwolves but agreed when the trade was proposed and that he’s fortunate to be part of the organisation.

The trade to the Timberwolves and the goal with the team

“So I didn't decide, but I agreed anyway.” 

“I was fortunate that Minnesota spoke to my agent and asked me before signing if I would enjoy playing for them, if I liked the challenge the club offered me. I said, "Yes, I'm interested," and the agreement was quickly reached.”

He also expanded that joining the Timberwolves can help him achieve his dream and goal of winning an NBA Championship. Minnesota is fifth in the Western Conference right now and a playoff run looks likely.

“My goal is still to win the NBA title and I feel like I can get that with my addition to this team.” 

- Rudy Gobert on his ambitions with the Timberwolves

“I also realised that I should come here for my personal development on and off the court. I'm in Minnesota to try to get this team up and try to get me up there too.”

“Winning the NBA title, of course. This is not only a dream, but also a big goal. I've always been guided by the thought of getting higher and higher.” 

Belief that the Timberwolves can win the title this year

Gobert, believes that the Timberwolves' roster boasting of himself, 2015-16 NBA Rookie Of The Year and three-time All-Star, Karl Anthony-Towns, as well as rising star, Anthony Edwards, can go all the way and lay hands on the coveted Larry O'Brien trophy.

“To be honest, I think we can win the title this year.” 

- Rudy Gobert on the Timberwolves' chances of winning the NBA Championship

“Of course we still have a lot of work to do to achieve that and the chemistry has to be right, but it can work well, I'm absolutely convinced of that. It will definitely go well if we maintain the right momentum.”

This interview was conducted by Alexis Menuge on behalf of VegasInsider