Rudy Gobert looks to shine bright in Timberwolves Play-In game

It’s win or go home for the Minnesota Timberwolves as they get set to host their Northwest Divisional rival, the Oklahoma City Thunder, in Friday night’s play-in game. A storm is brewing up north, and I believe the Wolves’ big offseason acquisition is ready to redeem himself and shine bright versus the Thunder.

There’s no question that Rudy Gobert’s absence affected the outcome of Tuesday’s game against the Los Angeles Lakers. Karl-Anthony Towns was forced to step into the center position which led to more physical play, causing him to get into foul trouble as the game progressed.

Getting Gobert back in the middle should be worrisome for a Thunder team who got bullied by New Orleans Pelicans center Jonas Valanciunas in OKC’s Wednesday victory. Valanciunas dominated the paint going seven of nine from the field, scoring 16 points and snagging 18 boards.

With an average age of 23, OKC has the youngest team in the NBA. A lot of these young players are still maturing and coming into their own as professionals. I expect Gobert to seek redemption and take advantage of OKC’s youth.

One Last Playoff Push for Minnesota

The season is on the line as Minnesota looks to make their third playoff appearance in six years. Look for All-Star guard Anthony Edwards to bounce back from a poor shooting night against the Lakers on Tuesday.

The 21-year-old phenom finished with his fourth single-digit scoring total for the year. While the concern is valid, I’m confident that Edwards will make the proper adjustments and come out more aggressive and explosive. Averaging 24.6 points per game, Edwards has been Minnesota’s go-to guy all year. With the most important game of the year in front of him, I except the young star to rise to the occasion.

As far as the rest of the pack, keep your eye on power forward Taurean Prince. He played in a season-high 43 minutes against the Lakers and thrived as a solid two-way player. As he goes back to his sixth man duties with Gobert returning, look for a rise in confidence and contributions from Prince in this must win game.