Ricky Rubio ‘targets return Thursday from ACL tear’ that sidelined him for a YEAR as Cavs point guard looks set to return against Trail Blazers
Ricky Rubio is reportedly close to returning more than a year after tearing the ACL in his left knee.
The point guard last played on December 28, 2021 against the Pelicans as Cleveland failed to qualify for the postseason after making the play-in.
But the Cavs now look on the verge of getting some backcourt depth, as ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski says Rubio is ‘targeting’ a return against the Blazers on Thursday.
Ricky Rubio averaged 7.6 assists per game for his career, which spanned 12 seasons.
The report said Rubio will practice Wednesday before a final decision about the game.
Rubio will be entering a backcourt that looks markedly different than the one he played in last season.
Donovan Mitchell was traded to Cleveland in September and is playing at an MVP level, averaging 29.3 points per game and 4.8 assists on 48.9 percent shooting from the field.
Rubio’s season ended on December 28, 2021 when he hurt his knee against the Pelicans
Ricky Rubio averaged a career-high in points before tearing his left ACL last session
Rubio is unlikely to start alongside Mitchell or Darius Garland, but he should still play a role in Cleveland’s rotation.
Before his injury last season, he matched a career-high of 13.1 points per game along with 6.6 assists.
Coach JB Bickerstaff also plays him 28.5 minutes a night.
While he may be saddled with that kind of workload after returning, Rubio would be a welcome depth piece for the Cavs, who are seeking their first trip to the playoffs since 2018.
They are currently fifth in the Eastern Conference with a 26-16 record – just 3.5 games behind the first place Celtics.
