Spanish Hype

Will Ricky Rubio be able to live up to the
hype?

It is rare that a player can make the transition from Europe to the NBA.  It can be extremely difficult for a point guard to make the transition to the NBA.  So, just imagine the pressure put on Ricky Rubio.  I mean, look at some of the point guards that Rubio will have to compete against in his rookie year:  Reigning MVP Derrick Rose, Rajon Rondo, second year player John Wall, Chris Paul, Deron Williams, Russell Westbrook... just to name a few.  Not only are these guys quick and talented point guards, but they have a high basketball i.q., and are extremely athletic.  Rubio's lack of explosiveness and athleticism may hinder him from becoming an all-star.  However, he also has a lot right about his game.

Rubio is a true pass first point guard.  Not only that, but is a pure team player.  While he only averaged 4.8 points and 4 assists in his final season playing for Barcelona in the Spanish ACB League, Ricky did all of the little things  He is a kid who wants to win, which in my opinion may be the difference in Minnesota's rise into playoff contention over the course of the next three NBA seasons.  With tremendous court vision, ball handling skills, and solid decision making, Rubio is also very tall for being a pure point guard, measuring at 6'4".  His mid-range game needs to improve, and yes he needs to work on his explosiveness and strength, but there is no doubt that Rubio is a big-time player who should make an impact realtively quickly as a member of the Timberwolves.