The Utah Jazz have reportedly signed center Rudy Gobert to a four-year, $102 million extension.
News of the deal was first reported by Adrian Wojnarowski of The Vertical.
Jazz Sign Rudy Gobert to Four-Year Extension
Gobert, 24, has a reputation for being one of the NBA‘s best rim protectors. Nicknamed the “Stifle Tower” for his excellent ability to block or affect shots, Gobert is seen as a defensive pillar for a Jazz team known for strong defense. Standing at 7’1”, Gobert makes the most out of the gifts given to him. Averaging 12 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game last season, Gobert’s form in the paint hasn’t dropped off. Gobert has totaled 36 rebounds and 8 blocks through three games this season.
One of Gobert’s weaknesses is at the free throw line. Last season, Gobert shot a disappointing 56.9 percent at the line. Many big men struggle at the line in today’s NBA, but with Gobert contributing so much elsewhere, Jazz fans can easily forgive the Frenchman. Some will question whether or not Gobert deserves this big money contract, but Jazz fans will be ecstatic to see him stay with the team for the long-term.
The Jazz are attempting to build a team that can contend in the Western Conference. After winning 40 games last season, Utah made changes to help the team win. Head coach Quin Snyder was re-signed. General manger Dennis Lindsey brought in forward Boris Diaw, point guard George Hill, and veteran swingman Joe Johnson. The off-season was productive in Utah, as a struggling franchise revived itself.
Gobert is just one piece of a strong line-up in Utah. The frontcourt can be dominant, with Derrick Favors and Gobert locking down the paint. One of the association’s best wing players in Gordon Hayward is currently injured for the Jazz, but when healthy, Hayward can average close to 20 points per game. The future is bright, with a few clouds in Utah, as there are still questions to be answered by this young and improving roster.
Main photo:
March 05, 2016: Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert (27) blocks the shot of New Orleans Pelicans guard Eric Gordon (10) during the NBA game between the Utah Jazz and the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, LA. (Photograph by Stephen Lew/Icon Sportswire) (Photo by Stephen Lew/Icon Sportswire/Corbis via Getty Images)
