A massive $110 million contract extension signed by the Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert was put to the test by the Los Angeles Lakers Rui Hachimura. A stunning dunk from the Japanese small forward got everyone excited. In the second match of the 2024-25 Tip Off, Hachimura just posted Gobert. The reactions are overwhelming X.

“Rui: Congratulations on your contract extension. Here is your gift.” one user tweeted, poking fun at the recently announced huge contract extension of the best defensive player. Another user agreed: “Imagine an MVP season in store for Rui“. That may seem far-fetched, but this is just the beginning of the season, who knows, this tweet could make his effort pay off. One user was in awe of Hachimura, writing: “ We sat down“, the capital letters really show the excitement Hachimura brought to the edge with his deceptive athleticism. One user even went so far as to say: “He's going to get stuffed by Bronny“. Considering Bronny is a rookie and only being picked in the second round, this comment has to hurt.

A pay cut for DPOY Rudy Gobert

Just a few minutes before the Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves game, Shams Charania of ESPN announced Gobert's contract extension. However, a salary cut for 4x DPOY provides some relief from the luxury tax paid by the Wolves. It might be a pay cut, but it is in no way less. $110 million for three years isn't bad in any way.

The deal gives Gobert more security for his future as the 32-year-old star advances his career. Gobert declined his $46.6 million player option for next season and will remain with the Wolves through the 27-28 season. The center is expected to make $43.8 million this season, with his contract extension beginning through the 2025-26 season. However, he will have a player option after the second year of the new contract.

The 32-year-old Gobert is entering his third season with Minnesota after winning his fourth NBA Defensive Player of the Year award last season. He averaged 14 points, 12.9 rebounds and 2.1 blocks per game, forming the backbone of the Wolves' best defense in the league. Gobert joined the team in the summer of 2022 as part of a major move from Utah. Meanwhile, Wolves president Tim Connelly is also optimistic about center Naz Reid, who has a player option for next season and who he hopes will stay with the team.

This deal with Gobert secures his spot with the Wolves when he reaches his mid-30s. This also leaves the roster flexible for future adjustments, especially if Gobert decides to leave after the second year of his contract.