2. Rudy Gobert
In his first season with the Timberwolves, Rudy Gobert was good. But in his second, he has been nothing short of incredible. The favorite to take home the Defensive Player of the Year award has been the driving force behind Minnesota's defense that has been at or near the top of numerous statistical categories all year.
Operating with Mike Conley as his starting point guard from the start of the regular season until the end of it, Gobert has had a great support system and has been able to maximize his incredible talents as a defensive anchor. Now, he will need to carry that production over to the postseason for the Wolves to be able to live up to their expectations.
Chris Finch has already seen what Gobert brings him in a playoff setting, and he even saw him showcase his talent against the eventual champions in 2023, featuring the most efficient offense in the playoffs. For a guy that has been accused of being "played off the floor" in the playoffs before, Rudy held his own rather well against Nikola Jokic and company.
Facing a similarly high-powered offense this year in the Suns, the coaching staff will need to keep an open mind about playing Gobert and where he fits best.