Minnesota Timberwolves star Rudy Gobert joins JJ and Tommy to discuss his defensive strategies, leading the team with Towns and Edwards, pick-and-roll secrets, and insights on upcoming talent like Wembanyama. They also have a fun 'French Things' draft.
Great defense focuses on team success over individual matchups, emphasizing communication and trust among teammates.
Impacting opponents' game plans and playing style, defensive IQ and team connectivity drive strategic adjustments and versatility.
Consistent, unnoticed defensive efforts lead to victories, showcasing the importance of reliable defense for overall success.
Deep dives
Importance of Defensive Anchors in Team Defense
Defensive anchors like Rudy emphasize the significance of limiting the opposing team's score rather than individual matchups. Communication and trust among teammates in defensive schemes create a cohesive unit. Rudy highlights the impact of non-flashy defensive plays like rotations, help defense, and contesting shots to disrupt the opponent's flow.
The Influence of Defensive Excellence on Team Strategy
Defense is not just about individual matchups but impacts the team's overall strategy. Rudy stresses how a great defender can force opponents to alter their game plans and playing style. The defensive IQ and connectivity within the team lead to adjustments, cross-matching strategies, and defensive versatility.
Consistency and Sacrifice in Defensive Success
Consistency in defensive efforts, even without flashy highlights, defines great defense. Rudy emphasizes the importance of doing the unnoticed defensive work consistently, which leads to team success. Winning is the ultimate measure of defensive excellence, showcasing the impact of reliable defense on achieving victories.
Cultural Delights of France
French culture offers a delightful array of experiences, spanning from the iconic elegance of Paris to the exquisite taste of French champagne. The vibrant French architecture radiates a unique charm, while the sophisticated French fashion scene continually sets global trends.
Gastronomic Wonders
French cuisine shines through its diverse offerings, including the savory Filet Mignon, delectable Nutella Crepes, refined French wines like Red Burgundy, and the ever-popular French Onion Soup. The culinary mastery extends to delightful pastries like Croissants, symbolizing the rich culinary heritage of France.
This week we are excited to welcome Minnesota Timberwolves star Rudy Gobert to ‘The Old Man and the Three’! We get into so many different topics with Rudy. JJ and Tommy open the pod by discussing how fantastic this NBA regular season has been and how much they are looking forward to the final weekend this weekend. Then when Rudy joins, he discusses his mentality around blocking dunks and how he leads as the defensive anchor of the Wolves. He also shares his defensive philosophy on the Wolves with having teammates like Karl-Anthony Towns, Jaden McDaniels, Anthony Edwards, and more, and how that compares to the personnel he had with the Utah Jazz. JJ and Rudy also get into detail about how great defense isn’t always the flashiest, why perimeter defenders get more shine than big men, and some of Rudy’s pick-and-roll secrets. Rudy also shares what he’s thought about Victor Wembanyama’s season and what he’s seen in him since meeting him five years ago. Then, they have a draft of ‘French Things.’ It’s a packed episode. Let’s go!