Insider calls out Rudy Gobert for ‘whining’ after Kyle Anderson comments

ESPN NBA Insider Tim MacMahon publicly criticized Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert on Wednesday, accusing the four-time Defensive Player of the Year of “whining” about offensive touches after recent comments about a teammate Kyle Anderson.

Speaking on ESPN’s NBA Today, MacMahon addressed Gobert’s remarks and suggested the veteran center stay focused on the role that has helped Minnesota achieve success this season.

“Rudy…who has the ball? Anthony Edwards has the ball. These are the same comments that used to get under Donovan Mitchell’s skin at Utah. Now, fortunately, Ant has a really thick skin. I think that kind of thing gets rejected, but Rudy, you roll. You don’t have to touch the ball. You don’t have to touch the ball. win four defensive players of the year. Run the floor, bounce, roll.

McMahon’s comments came shortly after Gobert spoke about Anderson, who recently returned to the Timberwolves after signing with the team last week following a buyout from the Memphis Grizzlies.

“Rudy, you roll. You don’t have to whine about not touching the ball. Protect the rim, like you did to get four defensive players of the year.”@BannedMacMahon on Rudy Gobert after his comments about Kyle Anderson being someone who “looks to pass… pic.twitter.com/o8PIrbeal0

— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) March 4, 2026

Gobert reflected on Anderson’s playmaking ability after Minnesota’s 117-110 win over Memphis on Tuesday. In discussing what Anderson adds to the offense, Gobert initially made a light-hearted remark about ball movement.

“I think just passing the ball… Yeah, someone who wants to pass the ball to his teammates.

NBA Insider Criticizes Timberwolves’ Rudy Gobert After Kyle Anderson’s Comments

Gobert later clarified that Anderson’s value extends beyond that comment, highlighting his ability to connect the offense and create opportunities for others.

“But yeah, he’s a connector. So someone who plays for his teammates.”

Anderson previously spent parts of three seasons with the Timberwolves before leaving for the Golden State Warriors. He was later traded to the Miami Heat last season and then traded again in the offseason to the Utah Jazz before being traded by Utah to the Memphis Grizzlies earlier this season. Following a With the Memphis buyout, Anderson returned to Minnesotagiving the Timberwolves another experienced ball handler and facilitator in addition to All-Star running back Anthony Edwards.

Minnesota has maintained strong momentum in the Western Conference during the 2025-26 season. The Timberwolves improved to 39-23 after Tuesday’s win over the Grizzlies and are currently fourth in the conference standings.

Gobert remains a central figure in the team’s defensive identity. Known for his rim protection and rebounding, the French center built a decorated career highlighted by four Defensive Player of the Year awards and multiple All-Star selections.

The Timberwolves will look to extend their current four-game winning streak when they host the Toronto Raptors on Thursday night. Tip-off is set for 20:00 ET as Minnesota continues its three-game homestand.