Milwaukee Bucks Game Preview: Feb. 24 vs Utah Jazz

4 of 5

Feb 1, 2017; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert (27) is fouled by Milwaukee Bucks guard Matthew Dellavedova (8) during the second half at Vivint Smart Home Arena. The Jazz won 104-88. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /

Player To Watch: Rudy Gobert

Rudy Gobert only scores 12.9 points per game. He’s not Utah’s sole All-Star this season–that honor goes to Gordon Hayward, who has a real case to be the Jazz player to watch. The Jazz are good because of their defense though, and that starts with the Stifle Tower.

Gobert is averaging 12.9 points, 12.6 rebounds, 1.0 assists and 2.5 blocks per game. He’s converting 64.2 percent of his field goals, and although Gobert’s had a reputation as a limited offensive player he’s made strides on that end.

Where Gobert really earns his money is through his defense, and he’s worth every penny of his recent contract extension. Only Kyle O’Quinn and Kristaps Porzingis hold opponents to a lower field goal percentage within six feet of the rim as compared to their season averages than Gobert, and neither of them defend as many shots there as Gobert does.

The Bucks will need to get past him enough to score on Friday night, which is no easy task. Watching Thon Maker do battle with the Frenchman should be an entertaining performance for fans watching the game.

Home/Bucks News