According to Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix, the Orlando Magic have “kicked the tires” on Ricky Rubio’s availability ahead of the NBA trade deadline.
Rubio’s homecoming was a big story to come out of draft night for the Minnesota Timberwolves. The 30-year-old is averaging 8.2 points, 6.5 assists and 3.2 rebounds per game this season but hasn’t been a fit on the court with the presence of D’Angelo Russell.
Rubio stepped into the starting lineup when Russell underwent knee surgery in February, but it hasn’t translated into more wins. The Timberwolves own the worst record in the NBA at 8-30 which has prompted the Minnesota front office to explore options in advance of the trade deadline.
A player that could be involved in a Rubio-to-Orlando deal is Magic forward Aaron Gordon. The Timberwolves have been active in searching for a power forward and have been linked to the 25-year-old dating back to last offseason.
With Rubio’s contract set to expire next season, his $17 million salary (and $17.8 million for 2021-22) is an attractive asset for a rebuilding team such as the Magic.
While the Timberwolves are reportedly “dying” to trade for Atlanta’s John Collins, they are looking around the league to add a power forward ahead of the Mar. 25 deadline.
