Ricky Rubio makes his return
Dazzling point guard Ricky Rubio has been cleared to play and is expected to play Saturday against the Dallas Mavericks for the first time since suffering a torn ACL late last season.
Last season Minnesota was 21-20 before Rubio was injured, and finished the season losing 20 of its final 25 games after he left the lineup.
In case you need a refresher, let’s remind you of his value to the Timberwolves and look ahead to where he can improve his game.
Looking back to 2011-12
You probably recall that the key aspect Rubio brings to the Timberwolves is his tremendous court vision and passing.
The main replacement for Rubio, Luke Ridnour, has played admirably this year – but hasn’t had quite the same impact as Rubio on defense or as a playmaker.
Ridnour has reached double-digit assists once in the first 20 games this season; Rubio did it nine times in his first 20 NBA games last year.
-- ESPN.com
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