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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