Minnesota Timberwolves: The Best Shot-Blocking Seasons in Franchise History
The Minnesota Timberwolves have seen some of the NBA’s most intimidating rim protectors anchor their defense, from franchise legend Kevin Garnett to four-time Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert. These big men didn’t just defend the paint — they redefined it. Here’s a look back at the most dominant single-season shot-blocking performances in Timberwolves history.
Kevin Garnett – 2003-04 | 2.2 BPG
In his MVP season, Kevin Garnett showcased one of the most complete campaigns in modern NBA history. Averaging 24.2 points, a league-best 13.9 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game, KG was the heartbeat of a 58-win Wolves team that reached the Western Conference Finals. His rim protection ranked 11th in the league, adding defensive bite to his all-around brilliance.
Rudy Gobert – 2023-24 | 2.1 BPG
Gobert’s second season in Minnesota was a defensive masterclass. With 2.1 blocks per game and his fourth career Defensive Player of the Year award, he proved he’s still the NBA’s premier rim protector. Gobert also posted a steady double-double, averaging 14.0 points and 12.9 rebounds, and finished sixth in the league in blocks per game.
Kevin Garnett – 1996-97 | 2.1 BPG
At just 20 years old, Garnett made his first All-Star appearance while proving himself as one of the league’s most versatile young stars. He jumped from 10.4 to 17.0 points per game while averaging 2.1 blocks, ranking ninth in the league. KG stood alongside legends like Hakeem Olajuwon, Shaquille O’Neal, Alonzo Mourning, and Patrick Ewing as one of only five players to average 17+ points and 2+ blocks that year.
Eddie Griffin – 2005-06 | 2.1 BPG
Though his life and career were tragically cut short, Eddie Griffin made a lasting defensive impact. In just 19.4 minutes per game, he averaged 2.1 blocks, a remarkable rate given his limited floor time. Griffin’s timing and instincts made him one of the league’s more underrated rim protectors, and his 2005-06 season remains a hidden gem in Timberwolves history.
Darko Miličić – 2010-11 | 2.0 BPG
Best remembered as the No. 2 pick in the loaded 2003 NBA Draft, Darko Miličić quietly found his niche as a defensive presence in Minnesota. In 2010-11, he started nearly 70 games and averaged 2.0 blocks per game, including a memorable seven-block outing against his former team, the Detroit Pistons. While his offensive game never matched expectations, his rim protection left a mark during his Wolves tenure.
Building a Legacy of Defense
From Garnett’s relentless energy to Gobert’s modern dominance, the Timberwolves’ history is filled with elite shot-blockers who protected the paint and altered games with their presence. For a franchise built on grit and toughness, these seasons stand as proof that defense has always been at the core of Minnesota basketball.
From Minnesota Timberwolves shirts
⏩ You may also love: Milwaukee Bucks Shirts
