After a critical Game 4 loss in the Western Conference Finals, Rudy Gobert stood firmly beside his teammate Anthony Edwards, who faced widespread criticism for his lackluster performance. Gobert’s support, however, led to him being trolled, highlighting the intense pressures and public scrutiny NBA players face during the playoffs.

The Minnesota Timberwolves, propelled by Rudy Gobert’s dominant performance against the Los Angeles Lakers’ small-ball lineup, secured a 103-96 victory in Game 5 to advance to the Western Conference Semifinals. The Lakers’ elimination raises questions about the future of LeBron James and the team’s direction.