After the Cleveland Cavaliers traded for the former teammate of Kevin Love Ricky Rubio from the Minnesota Timberwolves, Rubio had an amazing game against team USA in the 2021 Summer Olympics.
“I have the momentum from the Olympics, but also during the (2019 FIBA) World Cup before that,” Rubio said. “It really helped me build confidence, playing with the national team. After the World Cup, the season I had in Phoenix was my best year in the league. And I think I can bring momentum from the Olympics the same way I did two years ago now in Cleveland. I feel like I can build on that, I can work off that momentum. I feel the best I’ve ever felt,” Cavaliers Nation reports.
The 30-year old point guard had an amazing Olympic appearance averaging 25 points per game, 6 assists per game, and 3 rebounds per game against the world’s best players.
Rubio might not have a huge role in Cleveland playing time-wise but he will be a great addition to the team and a great mentor for Collin Sexton and Darius Garland. It will be very interesting to see what having the kind of player Rubio is around will impact the Cavs’ young core.
Ricky Rubio wants to help the Cavs win
As the fifth overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft Ricky Rubio averaged 8 points per game, 3 rebounds per game, and 6 assists per game for the Minnesota Timberwolves last season. Rubio might find himself playing heavier minutes if he impresses early in the season.
Having a veteran presence could be huge for the experience lacking Cavaliers. Rubio might be the perfect fit to play alongside all the Cavs young Seven- footers. But only time will tell how well Ricky Rubio will mesh with the other Cavaliers and the second unit where he will start his Cavaliers career.
Rubio seems very excited to be in Clevland and to show the fans what he is made of. He has stated multiple times that he thinks the fans will be very happy with how hard he plays and the results of that hard work.
Cavs fans can not wait for the season to start so they can see all their guys in action. The NBA season is right around the corner and the Cavaliers are looking to get back in the playoffs and this squad has a chance if they all stay healthy. But for now, we will have to wait until the season tips off next month.
Amanda Lynne