Rudy Gobert spoke candidly about Minnesota’s preparation for the Western Conference Semifinals, highlighting internal focus and team chemistry as keys ahead of their matchup with the Golden State Warriors.
“Getting ready mentally, physically, tactically too—using this time to work on the things that we need to work on,” Gobert said when asked what the Timberwolves prioritized during the break between series.
Gobert, who led Minnesota to a Game 5 win over the Lakers with 27 points and 24 rebounds, stressed the importance of transition defense and rebounding entering the next round.
“When we do those two things, we put ourselves in a great position to win,” he stated, adding that ball movement and defensive focus remain central themes.
Golden State, which advanced with a Game 7 victory over Houston, will present a contrasting style, often relying on small-ball lineups led by Stephen Curry and Buddy Hield.
Despite the Warriors’ versatility, Gobert dismissed any concerns about specific matchups, saying, “I’m prepared for anything… In a playoff series you’re going to have to adapt to whatever the other team might bring.”
The Timberwolves enter this round with greater postseason experience compared to last year, and Gobert believes that maturity will pay dividends.
“Everything we went through last year kind of doesn’t go unnoticed… especially handling success,” he noted, urging the team to retain its underdog mindset.
Gobert also pointed to a pivotal meeting in Phoenix earlier in the season as a turning point in the locker room.
“It was either we turn it up now and decide that we really want to take advantage of the talent that we have, or we don’t,” he recalled. “After that, I felt like things started to click.”
Asked about the selflessness among the roster, Gobert praised his teammates’ reactions to each other’s success.
“Everyone is kind of embracing each other… there’s a level of respect,” he said. “It makes you happy to see that his work has paid off.”
The 7-foot center also offered insight into his off-court relationship with Julius Randle, who joined the Timberwolves before the start of the season.
“He’s a great, great, great man… He’s really dedicated, and I have a lot of respect for that,” Gobert said, referencing their mutual trust and evolving connection.
As Minnesota prepares for Tuesday night’s Game 1 at home, Gobert underlined the team’s resilience.
“We never get too low. I feel like we always stay resilient. We don’t shy away from adversity.”
