*FAN SUBMISSION by Damien Akao of El Dorada, KA. Follow him on Twitter @DameAkao.*
The 23 year old Minnesota Timberwolves point guard has been a flashy, pass-first player, since he has entered the league, but does he have what it takes to make himself an elite player? After tearing his ACL in his rookie season, Rubio struggled to play like his former self before regaining his confidence later in the season. After having an offseason to recover Rubio should be ready for the next step in his career.
Courtesy: MInnesota Star Tribune
If Rubio, Love, and the rest of the Timberwolves are healthy they should be able to make a strong push for the playoffs. Rubio is entering his third year in the NBA. He has been able to produce solid numbers so far, but he has the potential to be even better. He needs to improve his jump shot; shooting 35.9 percent from the field and 31.7 percent from the three point line for his career is not acceptable for an elite level point guard. If he is able to improve his shooting it will keep the defense honest, and not just play him for the pass. It will also open up more opportunities for his teammates.
With Kevin Love back in the lineup along with new addition Kevin Martin, and center Nikola Pekovic, Rubio’s assist numbers should improve. Rubio is already a good rebounder for the point guard position having averaged over four rebounds for his career. He also has the ability cause havoc on the defensive end. Last season he was second in steals behind Chris Paul. Although his shooting numbers are not great, he is able to get to get fouled quite often and shoots 80 percent from the line.
The 2013-2014 season has a chance to be a big year for Ricky Rubio and the Minnesota Timberwolves. If they are able to remain healthy throughout the season they could be a dangerous team, but it all starts with the play of Ricky Rubio.
