While the Minnesota Timberwolves are reportedly not looking to trade point guard Ricky Rubio before Thursday’s deadline, they might want to consider placing a call to the Milwaukee Bucks if they change their mind.
Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports reports that Bucks head coach Jason Kidd has “long been enamored” with Rubio. The T-Wolves will likely be looking for a point guard with better scoring ability if and when they deal Rubio, and it’s unclear if the Bucks can meet that demand.
There have been rumors that Milwaukee is open to trading Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, but he is more of a swingman who has struggled to remain healthy. The Bucks would likely have to give up more than that to acquire Rubio, whether this week or during the offseason.
Kidd was a pass-first point guard during his 19-year NBA career. He was also named to the NBA’s All Defensive First Team four times and Second Team five teams. While he struggles to put the ball in the hoop, Rubio is also a tremendous passer and defender. Kidd likely sees some of himself in the 25-year-old.
If you read what T-Wolves GM Milt Newton said about Rubio before the season, you might be inclined to think Minnesota plans on keeping Rubio and his team-friendly contract. Of course, we all know how quickly things can change in the NBA.
