Acquire the second pick, draft Rubio and do what you want
Posted: Mon Jun 22, 2009 6:42 pm
Ainge can hold all the cards with the second pick, drafting Rubio. In other words, Memphis is in an interesting position, they could conceivably control (or dictate) the draft from there on. Imagine if Ainge could put Boston in that position? Ainge has to get that number two pick and parlay it into that which benefits the Celtics this season. Remember that the fifth pick (Jeff Green) was key in the trade with Seattle to acquire veteran Ray Allen. Perhaps, Boston could be so fortunate again. There are enough teams right now selecting after Memphis that would likely bid against each other for the opportunity to have Rubio. Maybe you don't get another star veteran, but there could be players available from these teams that might shore up Boston bench.
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Those with ESPN and ESP believe Spanish 18-year-old point guard Ricky Rubio has the best chance of electrifying a team and its fan base. If the Griz don't select Rubio, he won't slide past Sacramento at No. 4.
NBA types have waited four years for Rubio to become draft eligible. His size, flair for the game and aggressive defense are said to be more than enough for talent evaluators to overlook Rubio's inconsistent jump shot.
The large buyout (reportedly $6 million) Rubio is attempting to settle with his Spanish team no longer appears to be a major concern for league executives.
"I've said all along that, once he stayed in the draft, he's going to play in the NBA," Wallace said. "I expect to see Rubio in an NBA uniform next season."
Potential trades, which might include the No. 2 overall pick, still are in play for the Grizzlies as the draft nears. A team insider described the Grizzlies' chances of consummating a deal as "50-50" on or before Thursday.
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