Utah Jazz: Rudy Gobert delivers MVP level performance in All-Star debut

Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert made his All-Star debut on Sunday night, earning himself some MVP recognition thanks to his strong play.

The All-Star Game on Sunday night was extremely rewarding for Utah Jazz fans. They finally saw their star duo, Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell get the exposure that they deserve. The players made sure to take advantage of that spotlight, of course.

Gobert, in particular, was incredible. He may not have won the first ever NBA All-Star Game Kobe Bryant MVP Award, and Team Giannis may have lost the game, but Gobert sure made the fan base proud based on his efforts.

He was one of the best players on the court, finishing with 21 points and 11 rebounds on 10-11 shooting. Gobert was one of the few giving effort on the defensive end throughout the first three quarters of the game.

The fourth quarter was an incredibly entertaining showdown in a quest to see which team would reach 157 points first. Gobert, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year (2x), didn’t play a second in that quarter, which angered many Utah Jazz fans.

Who knows what would have happened if Gobert was out there, but regardless, it was the funnest and most competitive All-Star game that I have ever personally seen.

Gobert was finishing everything around the rim. He was rolling aggressively and even found some sweet chemistry with Atlanta Hawks point guard Trae Young. With the game on the line, he could have helped immensely on both sides of the court.

If Team Giannis came away with the victory, Gobert would have had a legit case for the MVP Award. I’m not sure that he would have enough fan votes, but regardless, he had an MVP level game.

Team LeBron won the game, though, and Kawhi Leonard won the MVP Award, but if you ask me, Rudy Gobert is the true MVP in the heart of Utah Jazz fans. Seeing him out there with the best the NBA has to offer just gave me a warm fuzzy feeling.

He got his All-Star moment, and is incredibly deserving. Watching Gobert grow into the superstar talent he is now has been incredible. He entered the league as a 27th overall pick that was super skinny and uncoordinated.

Now, he’s arguably the best center in basketball and has completed the first of what I expect to be many All-Star appearances in his career. He’s worked very hard and represents the epitome of a Utah Jazz player.

He won’t get the recognition he deserves, but Gobert has also played as a regular season MVP candidate, not just an All-Star Game MVP. He’s been that good this season for the Jazz.

It’s time to get back to business for Rudy Gobert and the Utah Jazz. The All-Star center will enjoy the rest of the All-Star break before being back on the court on Friday against the Spurs. This will be the start of a key stretch for the Jazz in terms of seeding for the playoffs.