Ricky Rubio Arrives in Minnesota

How The Heat Can Win It All In 2012, And Beyond

Miami's big 3 wasn't enough in 2011, can they improve for 2012 and beyond?

Depending on your affiliation, you are likely still thrilled or devastated by the Dallas Maverick's shocking victory over the Miami Heat in the NBA Finals.  Whether you are basking in the glory of seeing Lebron James struggle on the biggest stage of his career, or still recovering from the letdown of what once seemed a guaranteed championship , know one thing... the Heat are here to stay.  Like it or not, we are looking at a team poised to contend, as they said themselves, for multiple championships.  But how can Miami improve their chances of winning it all in the upcoming seasons?  Their options may be limited, but here's where they need to start.

Ricky Rubio Agrees To Terms With Timberwolves

Rubio after being picked 5th in 2009

After two years of negotiations, Timberwolves boss David Kahn appears to have finally convinced Spanish point guard Ricky Rubio to come to the frozen tundra of Minnesota.   Details are yet to be released, but the AP confirmed that Rubio has agreed to come to the NBA after two years of playing for FC Barcelona.

Rubio joined Barcelona after being drafted by the Timberwolves 5th overall two seasons ago, when he chose to stay in europe over coming to the NBA.  He cited a nearly $6,000,000 buyout from his previous team, DKV Joventut as well as his preference to play on the east coast as reasons why.  These past two years, however, is what makes this so interesting.  Since making the jump in 2009, it appears that Rubio's stats have leveled off or even regressed.  In fact, in Euroleague play this year, Rubio only averaged 3.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 6.5 points per game.  While the argument exists that 'its a different game over there', those still arent impressive numbers.  How many elite point guards do you know that average 3.5 assists?  Yet, there still may be hope.  The guy is only 20, and if put in a good situation could show us all that he has the talent we once hoped he did.

There are a few questions as to what caliber of Timberwolves team Rubio will join next year.  Most notably, what will they do in the draft and via free agency?  What happens with Johnny Flynn now that Rubio is finally here?

That remains to be seen.  But what we will get to see is if Rubio will ever live up to his hype of 2009.