Utah Jazz

Breakout season leaves Gobert and Utah Jazz wanting more

Published May. 14, 2015 9:35 a.m. ET

foxsports

While Rudy Gobert placed third in the Most Improved Player voting, if the NBA had a "Breakout Star" award, the Stifle Tower would have almost certainly won in a blowout. Gobert emerged this season as a defensive force, helping transform a Utah Jazz defense that was worst in the league last season into one of the best this year after the All-Star break. The lanky frenchman seemed to develop before our eyes, cutting down on his foul rate, learning the intricacies of shot-blocking, and even improving as a passer.

He's not a finished product, of course, and both he and coach Quin Snyder still see room for further improvement.

“We can focus a lot on his offense. His defense is so impactful,” Snyder said. ”I think additionally he can continue to have the impact he has around the rim in different facets. He’s like a middle linebacker.”

(h/t Deseret Morning News)

Photo credit: AP Photo/Rick Bowmer