Rudy Gobert Elbowed Teammate Naz Reid; Admits to True Intentions Behind Controversial Play

The Minnesota Timberwolves got a comfortable home win tonight against the shorthanded Cleveland Cavaliers. Anthony Edwards and Co. dominated the Cavs throughout the game. However, there was a point in the 4th quarter when Cleveland was threatening a comeback. But Rudy Gobert’s controversial antics led to teammate Naz Reid getting a new life and hitting a three-pointer to extend the lead for Minnesota.

During the closing minutes of the 4th quarter, Gobert accidentally elbowed Reid in the face while going for a rebound. Reid was in visible pain as he walked towards the bench, holding his face. However, the play continued, and Naz Reid rushed to the other end to hit an open three-pointer from the corner. Reid’s corner three extended Minnesota’s lead to 12 points. After the game, Gobert addressed his accidental elbow shot to Reid with a hilarious statement, “I just wanted to wake him up a little bit. And it did. He hit a 3 right after that.” Naz Reid laughed at Gobert’s comment and responded, “Yeah, I’ll take that.”

Fortunately, Naz Reid was not severely injured due to that play and was able to finish the game. He had a decent performance, scoring 18 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists. Gobert’s elbow could have done serious damage to Reid, considering he had just returned from a recent head injury.

Reid had to leave Monday’s game against the Utah Jazz mid-way after he took a shot to the head from John Collins. The center did not return for the rest of the game and had to sit out the game the next day against Denver due to a concussion. However, with his healthy return today, Reid only subdued the obstructions that have come the Wolves’ way.

The Minnesota Timberwolves are walking on thin ice

As the Minnesota Timberwolves get closer to the playoffs, their health has started to raise huge concerns. They recently saw Karl-Anthony Towns sidelined due to a torn meniscus in his left knee. KAT is recovering from surgery, and it is uncertain when he will return to action. Apart from KAT, other Timberwolves Centers are also facing injury concerns.

Rudy Gobert has also been in and out of the lineup recently. He missed three straight games before returning to the lineup tonight due to a left rib sprain. The Timberwolves have been great all season and have a chance to make a deep run in the playoffs. However, they cannot afford to lose their Big Men in this crucial stage of the season. Gobert, Reid, and KAT’s absence could ruin Anthony Edwards and Co.’s Championship dreams. Taking 3rd seed currently, the Timberwolves indeed need to be more careful for the remainder of the season.

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