Tensions flared in the second quarter of Game 2 between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Minnesota Timberwolves when Lakers guard Austin Reaves punctuated a play against Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert with an emphatic and explicit taunt that quickly reverberated across the NBA.
At the Lakers’ first game against Minnesota, Reaves was kind of decimated as his usual spark on the court was nowhere visible. After the game, he did not even mince words to admit that saying that he played “s***ty” in the game. So Game 2 was an attempt at redemption for him. He indeed delivered and did not hold himself back to assert his zest.
Reaves’ Unfiltered Response to Gobert’s Defense Resonates Across NBA Circles
In the second quarter of Game 2, Reaves delivered a standout moment that quickly went viral. As Reaves broke Gobert’s defense to score with a layup, the Lakers guard was caught on camera shouting an explicit taunt: “CAN’T F***ING GUARD ME!” This fiery exchange underscored the escalating intensity of the playoff series and highlighted Reaves’ competitive spirit.
“CAN’T FUCKING GUARD ME!”
Austin Reaves to Gobert 😳 pic.twitter.com/VWpwxlAHOU
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) April 23, 2025
Reaves was vital in the team’s 94-85 triumph, delivering 16 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists, hence displaying his all-around effect on the game.
The Lakers displayed their determination to bounce back after an embarrassing defeat in Game 1. Head coach JJ Redick had previously stressed to the team about physical play and toughness. Reaves seemed to execute that perfectly when he confronted Gobert.
The Lakers managed to earn a 1-1 series tie through combined team dedication while Reaves delivered intensified physicality that set up the ground for an all-important Game 3 in Minnesota.
Lakers Level Series With Gritty Game 2 Victory
The series was thus tied 1-1. After losing by 22 points in the first game, the Lakers turned the tables with an excellent first-half performance, leading by 22 points at one stage.
Luka Dončić led the attack with 31 points, 12 rebounds, and 9 assists, while LeBron James produced 21 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists. Rui Hachimura continued playing after his early-game facial injury because he wore a protective mask for his face to fight and delivered 11 points and an excellent defensive performance.
During their victory, the Lakers restricted the Timberwolves to shooting at 38% accuracy from the field and at 20% precision from three-point range. The Lakers successfully finished the game even though Minnesota showed a late rally, thanks to Julius Randle’s 27 points and Anthony Edwards’ 25 points.