Without question, the 2022-23 version of the Minnesota Timberwolves, with the newly acquired Rudy Gobert, are a better team than the 2021-22 squad that won 46 games. The NBA is about top-end talent, and while Gobert is not a traditional “star,” he has that type of impact on winning, and the Wolves were able to add him to their team without dipping into their core. The acquisition was still spendy in terms of draft capital and quality rotation players, but adding a top-end talent like Gobert immediately covers up many imperfections, while amplifying existing strengths.
While some may worry about the fit, I truly believe Gobert is about as perfect of a fit for this team as there is in the NBA.