‘Hilarious’ moment as Instagram takes down post of Steven Adams wanting to punch Rudy Gobert

Steven Adams' joke about punching Rudy Gobert gets removed by Instagram as Boston Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla's comments on rules change.

‘Hilarious’ moment as Instagram takes down post of Steven Adams wanting to punch Rudy Gobert

Steven Adams and Rudy Gobert

Boston Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla has carved out a niche for his metaphors and sarcasm. Recently, the coach sparked controversy when he suggested a rule change in the NBA. As a result, Houston Rockets center Steven Adams responded with a joke of his own on Instagram.

Steven Adams offered to punch Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert should the NBA listen to coach Joe Mazzulla and bring back fighting to the league. Surprisingly, Adams’ comment was removed by Instagram for violating the platform’s policies on violence.

$20 I punch @rudygobert27 square in the nose.

Steven Adams wrote on Instagram

He later shared on his Instagram stories that he “felt bad” about the deleted comment. Coach Mazzulla wanted the NBA to copy from the NHL’s style fist fights. Rudy Gobert himself has faced online criticism from fans and analysts. Especially, Shaquille O’Neal blasted him for his limited offense, despite winning four Defensive Player of the Year awards. These criticisms have infuriated the Frenchman sometimes.

However, the reason why Adams wants to punch Gobert remains unknown. The exchange has generated interest in upcoming matchups between the Rockets and Timberwolves, as they would face each other four times this season. Fans will be eager to see whether the joke will carry over onto the court or if Gobert will respond to it verbally.

Steven Adams dominates Victor Wembanyama in return to court

Steven Adams showed no rust in his first game since January 2023, effortlessly pushing aside Victor Wembanyama for an offensive rebound. The veteran didn’t start the game as Alperen Sengun continued his run as the starting center. Nevertheless, Adams’ strength proved too much for Wemby when they did come across one another.

Adams, who averages 3.7 offensive rebounds per game (eighth all-time), demonstrated why boxing him out is a challenging task. The veteran used his experience to outdo the young phenom. Wembanyama, in the aftermath of the event, acknowledged Adams’ immovability.

Offensively a little bit of a problem. On the boards, of course, very strong guy that you can’t really move. So, you have to be there early. Just a solid player as we know Steven Adams.

Victor Wembanyama said in his postgame press conference
YouTube video

In the end, the Houston Rockets won 106-101, and improved to 2-2, while the San Antonio Spurs fell to 1-2. Adams contributed six points and three rebounds in 14 minutes, while Wemby had 14 points, 20 rebounds, five assists, and four blocks.