Rudy Gobert Praised Kyle Anderson a Day Before Appearing to Throw Punch

The Timberwolves’ center spoke positively about his teammate’s leadership style.

Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert was sent home from Sunday’s game after appearing to throw a punch at forward Kyle Anderson. During a timeout in the game against the Pelicans, Gobert could be seen swinging at Anderson before the two were separated on the sideline. 

One day before the incident, Gobert discussed Anderson leadership style with Chris Hine of the Star Tribune, describing it as being “aggressive” but indicating the 29-year-old was a key part of the Timberwolves’ season. 

“Kyle wants to win, and sometimes he’s a little aggressive in the way he talks, but I don’t take it personally,” Gobert said. “I receive it in a positive way because it comes from a place of wanting me to be the best Rudy I can be and wanting us to win. I love his competitiveness, love the way he plays the game. The way he makes others around him better. He’s been a huge part of this year.”

I've been working on a piece about Kyle Anderson's leadership and his blunt, honest way of talking to teammates. I asked Rudy Gobert about him yesterday. He's what Rudy said. pic.twitter.com/l0kDs94lR5

— Chris Hine (@ChristopherHine) April 9, 2023

Despite his complimentary remarks about Anderson’s aggressive leadership style, the pair were forcibly separated during Sunday’s tilt against the Pelicans.

During the incident, it appeared as if Gobert took issue with something Anderson said. After the two exchanged some words, Gobert could be seen leaning forward and throwing a punch at his teammate. 

Oh my Rudy Gobert just threw a punch at his own teammate Kyle Anderson pic.twitter.com/6GP5wwkCqW

— Kevin O'Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) April 9, 2023

Gobert was reportedly sent home by the organization after the incident, per The Athletic’s Shams Charania. The Wolves will surely be hoping Anderson and Gobert can patch things up quickly with the postseason looming.