LOS ANGELES — The Timberwolves traded five players, four future first-round picks and included another pick swap when they dealt for Rudy Gobert, the center who was going to elevate their defense and alleviate their issues rebounding, especially in the playoffs.
But when the Wolves take the floor Tuesday night for the first time this postseason in a play-in game against the Lakers, the player they traded so much for won't be out there.
The Wolves suspended Gobert for Tuesday's game against the Lakers after Gobert attempted to punch teammate Kyle Anderson during a timeout in Sunday's win over the Pelicans, the team announced Monday.
Gobert will be suspended for just the play-in game against the Lakers and will be eligible to play should the Wolves have a second play-in game in Minnesota on Friday or when they begin a playoff series.
The Wolves sent Gobert home following the altercation and Gobert issued a note of apology to the team's group chat, according to point guard Mike Conley. He also issued an apology to the team and Anderson via Twitter.
Team President Tim Connelly issued a statement after the game saying Gobert's actions were "unacceptable," and Connelly made the decision to further discipline Gobert. With the suspension, Connelly is attempting to maintain a culture of accountability, regardless of a player's stature or salary.
Anderson said after the game he thought he and Gobert would be able to put the incident behind them.
"I think tempers just flared," Anderson said. "That's all. It is what it is. We'll speak about it and move on. We're grown men. It is what it is. Just move on."
