Minnesota Timberwolves: Will Ricky Rubio Become an NBA Star?

Ricky Rubio, starting with his pro basketball debut in Europe at the age of 14, has been considered to have the skills and potential to become a star in the NBA by pro basketball scouts, coaches, teams, fans and even players from around the world.

In 2009, the Minnesota Timberwolves drafted Rubio with the fifth overall pick, although it was indicated he would not play in the NBA for at least two seasons because of his contract buyout in Spain. The T-Wolves, led by GM David Kahn, were very desperate for Rubio's star potential and were even willing to wait two years for him to sign a contract with them.

Well, the wait is over as Rubio finally signed with the T-Wolves this past summer, but now some NBA scouts are questioning Rubio's skills and potential.

So, the big question now is: Will Ricky Rubio become a NBA star?

Reality is, many in the pro basketball world still believe he has very good point guard skills, but he also still has the same weaknesses that were previously overlooked because of his age. Some of Ricky's major weakness areas still are poor shooting and lack of NBA-level strength due to his 6'4”, 180-lb frame, which has not changed much since the Wolves drafted him.

Also, stats from his last four seasons in the Spanish ACB League are discouraging.

In 2010-11, in 42 games for Barcelona, he averaged 4.8 points, 4.1 assists, 3.2 rebounds, 1.6 steals, 32 percent FG and 25 percent 3FG in 21 minutes per game.

In 2009-10, in 42 games for Barcelona, he averaged 6.5 points, 4.2 assists, 2.7 rebounds, 1.9 steals, 40 percent FG and 36 percent 3FG in 20 minutes per game.

In 2008-09, in 25 games for Joventut, he averaged 9.8 points, 5.8 assists, 2.7 rebounds, 2.2 steals, 40 percent FG and 41 percent 3FG in 22 minutes per game.

In 2007-08, in 39 games for Joventut, he averaged 10.2 points, 3.9 assists, 3.3 rebounds, two steals, 36 percent FG and 26 percent 3FG in 23 minutes per game.

As you can see, Rubio's stats became worse in his weak areas during his most recent years in the Spanish ACB League, so how can Rubio still eventually become a star player in the best basketball league of the world?

Well, while some expect Rubio to struggle as an NBA rookie, the fact remains he will be playing for the young T-Wolves. That could help his rookie stats tremendously and give him plenty of opportunities to improve on his weaknesses.

Also, playing in the NBA is very different than playing in Europe. Do you remember Brandon Jennings' stats in Italy? Likewise, Rubio's skills are perfectly suited for the run-and-gun style of the NBA today and he now should have the minutes and freedom to lead, run and create fast-break points for his young athletic teammates.

So, if Ricky Rubio flourishes in Minnesota, he will become a star in the NBA.

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