The Cleveland Cavaliers have rapidly become one of the league’s most entertaining teams to watch.
Their young core is one of the most promising in the Association, and they figure to be a perennial playoff team for years to come.
Nonetheless, it’s evident that every young team needs veterans to go the distance, especially when the season is on the line and in the playoffs.
That’s why the Cavs got a massive boost when Ricky Rubio was finally able to make his long-awaited return after making just 34 appearances last season before going down with an injury.
He is back @cavs
Ha vuelto @rickyrubio9 ☺️ pic.twitter.com/PbcG2TbaS9
— NBA Spain (@NBAspain) January 13, 2023
The 32-year-old will provide a much-needed offensive spark off the bench, pulling the strings of the offense and running the second unit like the elite playmaker he’s been for the better part of his career.
Of course, the Cavs don’t need Rubio to play heavy minutes, and he’s never been much of a scorer.
But he’s earned a reputation for knocking down big shots, playing solid backcourt defense, and being a pass-first kind of guy who’s a master at setting the table for his teammates.
Moreover, Rubio’s mentorship is likely to do wonders for Darius Garland‘s development as he continues to learn the ropes of the NBA.
As of now, J.B. Bickerstaff’s team is sitting on a 27-16 record and the fourth spot in the Eastern Conference, just four games behind the first-place Boston Celtics.
So, if Rubio can give them at least 15 or 18 minutes of productive play a night, this team could leave contenders in the dust.
NEXT: Ricky Rubio's Return Not Enough To Make The Cavs Contenders