There are so many exciting layers to LaMelo Ball's fit with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Most of the discussion is understandably around how he will make life easier for Anthony Edwards, given his gravity as both a scorer and playmaker.
However, what can't get lost is that Ball will make life easier for other Wolves players, and one of the biggest beneficiaries will undoubtedly be Rudy Gobert.
There's no way around it: Gobert isn't an offensively slanted player, and he has clear deficiencies on this end of the floor. Like any player, though, the roster context around him contributes to his impact.
Last season, the Wolves' lack of a natural playmaker hurt his offensive output, leading Gobert to average just 10.9 points (the lowest mark since his third year in the league). Sure, this could be age and skill-related, but to me it's not a coincidence that Gobert's production declined when Mike Conley's role was reduced.
Now, though, with Ball in the mix, I expect Gobert to be spoonfed opportunities around the rim, and I think we'll see a natural uptick in his production.
LaMelo Ball could help power a Rudy Gobert offensive resurgence
For the past few seasons, teams have had no problem disrespecting Gobert and daring the Wolves to pass to him.
Frankly, a lot of the time, his teammates opted not to involve him. Regardless of how great his defense is, Gobert's subpar offense (and his teammates not passing to him) has been a problem for the Wolves, particularly this past season.
Ball, though, is a natural playmaker who is always looking to involve his teammates, and if Gobert is open, best believe he'll swing the rock to him. This past season, Ball averaged 7.1 assists per game with an absurd 38.1 assist percentage. There are few passers with his same versatility and skill level.
Likewise, Ball is a pick-and-roll maestro, meaning Gobert can be utilized more often as a roll man and lob threat.
Another key factor is that the Wolves have a ton of spacing and speed around Rudy, which can negate some of his concerns and open up even more shots for him around the rim. LaMelo's arrival forces the Wolves to adopt an identity centered around perimeter play, and this can benefit Gobert in a major way.
The new-look Timberwolves roster is similar to how the Utah Jazz were set up, which saw Gobert average a career-best 15.9 points per game back in the 2018-19 season.
Gobert's hands have been much maligned, and he will have to catch some of Ball's daring passes. All the same, Gobert will have more offensive opportunities than he has in past years thanks to LaMelo.
Amid all the excitement about LaMelo Ball's arrival, the possibility of a Rudy Gobert offensive resurgence can't be ignored.
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