Watch: Rudy Gobert pulls off pass through defender’s legs

Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert (27) drives to the basket during the first half against Portland Trail Blazers center Deandre Ayton (2) at Moda Center. Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Timberwolves’ Rudy Gobert pulls off absurd behind-the-back pass through defender’s legs

By Jeff Smith | Last updated 2/16/24

The Minnesota Timberwolves had the type of performance Thursday night that NBA teams surely dream about on the final day before the All-Star break.

While Anthony Edwards and company had to travel to Portland to face the Trail Blazers before the players partake in either a short vacation or the 2024 NBA All-Star Game, the Timberwolves didn't have to spend much time stressing the outcome of this game after jumping out a 44-14 lead after the first quarter.

While the Blazers managed to cut that lead down to 15 before halftime, Minnesota regained control in the second half en route to a 37-point victory. The Timberwolves starters still grabbed plenty of attention, though, even in the blowout, and big man Rudy Gobert made one of the most absurd passes that went overlooked mainly due to how nonchalant he made it look.

what? pic.twitter.com/JVhWcOeckf
— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) February 16, 2024

Gobert pulled down a rebound and, out of the corner of his eye, spotted his target, proceeding to flip a no-look, behind-the-back pass that somehow went through the legs of Blazers center Ibou Badji, who was attempting to defend the pass. It was one of many highlights for the Timberwolves in the 128-91 victory.

Although Gobert played nearly eight minutes less than his season average in the blowout, he still finished with a double-double, tallying 11 points on 4-of-7 shooting with 12 rebounds, two assists and two blocks.

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