Rubio could become a restricted free agent next summer…
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The Minnesota Timberwolves are reportedly prepared to offer point guard Ricky Rubio a four-year extension worth $42m but his agent is understood to want more.
If there is no deal in place before October 31, then Rubio will be expected to become a restricted free agent next summer and will test the open market.
However, the Timberwolves have insisted that they want to ensure the Spaniard remains with the franchise for the foreseeable future, and have offered what appears to be a very generous offer.
Nevertheless, Rubio’s agent has reportedly suggested that he wants more for his client, and that could well lead to problems for Minnesota.
According to Darren Wolfson of ESPN1500 in Minneapolis, the Timberwolves are willing to offer a four-year deal worth $42m, but his agent believes that the New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers could be in the market for a point guard next year and is keeping his options open.
Rubio would arguably be a perfect fit for this up-tempo Minnesota team, with a flurry of athletic rookies around him he will be expected to excel with his court vision while adding defensive solidity, although his shooting continues to be a problem area.
If he is able to develop his shot this season then interest may well increase in acquiring his services, but with the potential of Rajon Rondo, Jeremy Lin, and Kemba Walker amongst others being available on the market next summer, he would face serious competition to find a better move elsewhere.
The Timberwolves have insisted that they are in no rush to tie up a deal and look to have settled on their numbers, and ultimately it could come down to what Rubio wants as he could flourish with this team as they continue to rebuild.
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