Minnesota Timberwolves’ center Rudy Gobert will sit out Game 2 against the Denver Nuggets due to the birth of his child. Head coach Chris Finch confirmed Gobert’s absence due to personal reasons before tipoff, citing travel challenges caused by adverse weather conditions preventing his return to Denver.
Gobert, initially listed as questionable for “personal reasons,” reportedly became a father Monday morning. The team had prepared for his potential absence, recognizing the importance of the life event. Gobert played a significant role in the Timberwolves’ Game 1 victory, contributing to their defensive prowess against the Nuggets.
From talking to Timberwolves folks, it sounds completely up in the air whether Rudy will be available tonight. https://t.co/dBmv9nVf6I
— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) May 6, 2024
The Denver Nuggets have announced that guard Jamal Murray, initially listed as questionable due to a lingering calf strain, has been cleared to play in Game 2. The team confirmed Murray’s availability before tipoff.
Gobert’s absence was anticipated, with him becoming a father on the day of the game. He and his girlfriend Julia Bonilla had announced the impending arrival several months prior.
Gobert and the Timberwolves were aware of the possibility that he might miss a playoff game for the birth of his child. The team has always supported his choice to be with his girlfriend at such an important moment in his life.
“I would do anything I can to be there,” Gobert told the Deseret News in March. “I don’t think there’s any debate to have. Coach Finch and every guy in this locker room, that’s what I love about them, we have a level of human connection and empathy for one another that I think is really good. And I think all the guys will be literally telling me, ‘Don’t play, go.’”
Gobert played a pivotal role in the Timberwolves’ 106-99 victory in Game 1, exhibiting strong defensive presence in the paint and thwarting Aaron Gordon’s typical alley-oop plays. Additionally, a defensive rotation involving Gobert, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Naz Reid applied pressure on Nikola Jokic, resulting in the MVP favorite committing seven turnovers and missing 14 shot attempts during the game.
The absence of Gobert poses a challenge for the Timberwolves, who seek to maintain their momentum after securing a win in the series opener.
Tip-off for Game 2 is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET (8 p.m. MT) in Denver.
