The Timberwolves continue their march towards one of the most difficult games of the season – facing the Oklahoma City Thunder, who lead the Western Conference. At 31-27 and in the playoff mix, they’re fighting to show they belong among the elite. Still, they’re dealing with this challenge without Rudy Gobert, their anchor on defense. But think about this – can they survive without him?

Losing Gobert is an enormous blow. He’s been a force in the paint, averaging 11 points and 10.4 rebounds. His defense is a big reason Minnesota ranks second in the NBA in defensive rating. Without him, they’ll have to slow down an OKC offense that ranks fourth in offensive rating. That won’t be easy, especially with how well the Thunder have been playing lately.

And that’s not their only problem. Donte DiVincenzo was also out with a toe sprain. His absence weakens their perimeter defense and takes away a reliable shooter. He’s been hitting 36.9% of his threes, a big loss for floor spacing. Against a Thunder team that thrives on ball movement and fast-paced play, missing him puts more pressure on Mike Conley and Jaden McDaniels.

Their last game exposed some serious flaws. Without Gobert, they struggled to a 121-115 loss to Houston. Alperen Sengun took full advantage, dominating with 24 points and 13 rebounds. Now, they face an OKC squad that has won eight of its last ten. The Thunder just crushed Utah 130-107, proving they can score in a hurry.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, averaging 32.2 points per game, will be a nightmare to contain. Without Gobert’s rim protection, keeping him out of the paint will be a massive challenge.

Rebounding is another issue. The Wolves were 17th in boards per game with Gobert. Now, their frontcourt is thin without him and Julius Randle (groin strain). That means Naz Reid will have to contribute differently. He’s the kind of guy who can be dominant offensively but is not as good as defensively he is.

Anthony Edwards will have an even heavier burden if the Timberwolves want to stay in the playoff race. If Minnesota is to remain competitive, its bench must also be in it.

Timberwolves face tough challenge without Rudy Gobert

This couldn’t come at a worse time. The Wolves have won five of their last ten games and are sitting in the seventh seed. With the playoff race heating up, losing their best defender is brutal. Gobert defines their defensive identity. This game will show if they can compete without him.

In their last meeting against OKC, Minnesota limited them to 101 points. Gobert’s rim protection was largely the reason. Without him, the Thunder will still have a tendency to attack the paint all game. If the Wolves don’t adjust quickly, this could get ugly.

It’s also an opportunity. If they can win, it proves they’re not just a defensive team. Anthony Edwards (27.6 points, 5.8 rebounds), has a chance to demonstrate that he can lead this team against the best. It would be a season-defining win if Minnesota locks it in and executes.

Bottom line? This game is a huge test. The Wolves are missing their most important defender against the best team in the West. If they step up, it’s a statement. If not, it raises serious questions about their playoff chances. Either way, tonight will reveal a lot.