Rudy Gobert’s decision to sign a $110 million contract extension with the Minnesota Timberwolves has been widely considered beneficial for both him and the team. Gobert secures long-term financial stability, while the Timberwolves gain some much-needed financial flexibility.
Instead of exercising his $46.6 million player option for the next season, the French center opted for the new extension, which reduces his average salary to $36 million, resulting in a $10 million savings for the team. This move is expected to provide the Timberwolves with more room to maneuver in the upcoming offseason.
The Timberwolves are in a tight spot with the salary cap, having a negative cap space of $32.7 million and a hefty luxury tax bill of about $96 million, the second-highest in the NBA. This financial pressure was one of the key reasons behind the decision to trade Karl-Anthony Towns to the New York Knicks earlier this summer.
Rudy Gobert expressed his gratitude for the new deal and emphasized how it benefits both him and the team. He mentioned that by accepting a lower salary, he hopes to help the Timberwolves stay competitive. “I think it’s about finding balance,” Gobert said through the Associated Press. “Every year, every time I sign a contract, I always try to leave a little bit for the team, be able to realize that I’m grateful to be able to play on what I’m earning.”
Gobert also reflected on his journey, saying, “Being from where I come from, it’s an amazing blessing, and at the same time, being able to not be too greedy and leave some on the table for our competitiveness as a team. I think it’s important. I’m grateful that I’ve had great people around me.”
