Rudy Gobert works out with prominent NBA free agent
By Will Eudy
NBA free agency is nearly upon us. After the draft on June 22, it will be the primary topic of discussion and speculation concerning the NBA. Fans of the Minnesota Timberwolves are already wondering what moves their team may be planning once the free agency period officially begins on June 30.
With some recent social media activity, they may already have an idea of one player that could be in the Timberwolves’ sights. Late in the day on Sunday, Rudy Gobert posted an Instagram story that showed him working out with Washington Wizards wing Kyle Kuzma.
Entering his seventh year in the league, Kuzma will be entering unrestricted free agency in the summer of 2024. However, he has a player option on his contract for the upcoming season that he can choose to pick up or not. If he declines it, he can seek opportunities with other teams.
Would Kyle Kuzma be a good fit with the Minnesota Timberwolves?
It is unclear what kind of connection Kuzma and Rudy Gobert have, but the fact that they are working out together bodes well for their potential fit in Minnesota. It did not appear that Gobert’s story was posted from the Timberwolves or Wizards team facilities, but rather from a private gym.
In terms of on-court fit, Kyle Kuzma would appear to fit in seamlessly with the Wolves. He is one of the better three-and-D wings in the league, with the ability to create for himself and lock down on the other end consistently. His perimeter defense would strengthen the Timberwolves’ defensive unit even more.
Another element Kuzma would bring to the table in Minnesota is championship experience. He helped the Lakers win the title in the bubble in 2020, acting as a key role player for that squad. No one on the Timberwolves’ current roster has ever played in an NBA Finals, and Kuz would add championship grit to this group.
If Minnesota is indeed planning to pursue Kyle Kuzma this summer, it is certainly smart of Rudy Gobert to begin forming a relationship with his potential new teammate now. After all, a good old fashioned workout can never be considered tampering.