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"What the f**k are you doing in the offseason?" - Tracy McGrady calls out 3x NBA All-Star for not modifying his game

Modified Nov 08, 2022 11:35 GMT

Former NBA star Tracy McGrady criticized Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert's offseason workouts.

Gobert has historically struggled in the playoffs against small-ball lineups, and his offensive skillset is also limited. Several of the Jazz opponents in the postseason have exploited his weaknesses. But Gobert has refused to work on his game.

McGrady, who was an extremely hard-working player, said he couldn't understand why Rudy Gobert had not made improvements. During a recent appearance on Fubo Sports' 'No Chill with Gilbert Arenas' podcast, McGrady said:

"This is what I've been wondering, what the f**k are you doing in the offseason? Like what is your workout?"

Tracy McGrady reflected on one of Gobert's duels with Chris Paul when the latter was with the Houston Rockets.

"I was so mad at Rudy when they were playing against the Rockets one year bro and Chris Paul was guarding him in the post, I was mad as s**t. He couldn't do nothing. Bro you're 7'2" and a point guard is guarding you, he had no moves."

Rudy Gobert is a traditional big man who operates efficiently in the paint. His limited skillset isn't considered good enough in the modern-day NBA, though. Centers have widened their scope and become efficient shooters, ball-handlers, and playmakers, as well as versatile defenders.

Tomer Azarly

@TomerAzarly

“We might be small in size, but we’re not small in heart, for sure. We understand Rudy Gobert is one of the best defenders in the NBA. We wanted to get him out of the paint so we can kind of get early drives and open lanes.”

Patrick Beverley on the small-ball lineup in the 4th.

Rudy Gobert continues to have plenty of suitors

The Utah Jazz failed to make an impact in the 2022 playoffs and suffered a 4-2 loss against the Dallas Mavericks.

Rumors surrounding Rudy Gobert's departure picked up steam following Utah's playoff exit.

Sam Amico

@AmicoHoops

Most trade rumors surrounding Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert appear to be coming from outside the organization. Other Jazz players, however, seem available. hoopswire.com/jazz-may-look-…

Tomer Azarly

@TomerAzarly

Here’s video of Rudy Gobert talking about the defensive improvements he’s seen from Devin Booker on January 14th…

As well as the Donovan Mitchell responses to 2 separate questions a day later:

Rumors suggest they are open to trading the center, who has plenty of suitors in the NBA.

The Atlanta Hawks, Toronto Raptors, Chicago Bulls, and Minnesota Timberwolves have all reportedly shown interest. Most of these teams could also offer the Jazz valuable assets in return for the three-time Defensive Player of the Year.

NBACentral

@TheNBACentral

The Toronto Raptors are among the teams who would have a degree of interest in trading for Rudy Gobert if he’s made available, per @IanBegley

The chatter circling Rudy Gobert is one of the most intriguing storylines to follow this offseason. It may impact Donovan Mitchell's future with the team as well, so it will be interesting to see what deal the Jazz engineer to make their roster fit to contend for a title.