Report: Rudy Gobert could potentially miss game 2 for "personal reasons"

Just ahead of Game 2 of the NBA's Western Conference semifinals between Minnesota and Denver, some major personnel news coming from the Timberwolves. Center Rudy Gobert, and presumptive NBA Defensive Player of the Year for the fourth time, is listed as questionable for the game due to personal reasons.

Gobert did not participate in shootaround ahead of Monday's game as was widely reported in the Twin Cities.

While no more details were given by the Timberwolves, Gobert and his girlfriend, Julia Bonilla, announced in February that they are expecting a baby. ESPN is now reporting that baby was born Monday morning.

Gobert has said all along he intended to be there for the baby's birth even if it meant missing a playoff game.

"I don't think there's any debate to have," Gobert said back in February. "Coach [Chris] Finch and every guy in this room – that's what I really love about our team, we have a level of human connection and empathy for one another that's really good. I think all the guys will literally tell me, don't play."

There's no question the Wolves would miss Gobert's presence if he can't make it to Denver for Game 2. He's a key piece of their defensive plan to stop Nikola Jokic who is a large and difficult matchup for anyone Denver plays against. Gobert had his usual strong defensive game Saturday in the Wolves Game 1 victory.

The Wolves lead the best-of-seven series 1-0 with Game 2 set to tip-off late Monday night in Denver. Game 3 is back in Minneapolis Saturday.