Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama must solve Rudy Gobert problem after Game 1 struggles

TL;DR

Victor Wembanyama of the Spurs struggled in Game 1 against the Timberwolves, scoring only 11 points. His performance was heavily impacted by Rudy Gobert, who limited Wembanyama's scoring opportunities.

Key points

Victor Wembanyama scored 11 points in Game 1
Rudy Gobert limited Wembanyama's scoring opportunities
Wembanyama shot 5-of-17 from the field
Gobert has a strong defensive reputation
Wembanyama struggled against Gobert's defense

San Antonio SpursMinnesota TimberwolvesVictor WembanyamaRudy Gobert

Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama must solve Rudy Gobert problem after Game 1 struggles originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama struggled offensively in Western Conference semifinals Game 1 against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Defensive Player of the Year was limited to just 11 points in 40 minutes. He shot 5-of-17 from the field, missing all eight 3-pointers attempted.

The big reason behind Wemby's struggles was T'Wolves center Rudy Gobert, who himself is a two-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year. In Game 1, when Wembanyama faced the Timberwolves star on offense, he could only shoot 4-of-10 from the field for eight points. Moreover, all four 3-pointers defended by Gobert failed.

Notably, Gobert has made an identity to be a menace for scoring centers and forwards. He has done well against both Wembanyama and Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic, limiting them to a combined 36-86 (41.9%) shooting from the field.