Updated: 07/08/2009 11:45 AM KSTP.com | Print Story
By: Chris Keating

Wolves Draft:  Jonny Flynn yes...Ricky Rubio???

I am trying to be optimistic because the verdict is still out.  But I am not all that pleased the Timberwolves selected the Spaniard Ricky Rubio with the fifth pick in the draft.  Frankly, I was sitting in front of the tv at home hoping he would be picked by the Thunder, Grizzlies, or Kings.

Listen, I am a T-Wolves fan...I proudly wear hats, t-shirts and yell at games at the Target Center so I am not trying to be a downer.  But all we hear about this kid is that he's a great "passer."  Not good enough for me.  Hey I watched the Olympics he wasn't that impressive.  He looked his age, 18, as a Wolves fan we need somebody who can step in right away and take charge.  But here's my biggest gripe...whenever I hear NBA coaches  talk about why a rookie or "scorer" is sitting on the bench it's because he can't play defense on the NBA level.  I haven't heard anything about defense being in Rubio's repetoire.  I saw Randy Foye light up Miami last year and then put the breaks on Dwayne Wade.  This year...do you think the Wolves coach, whoever it may be will let Rubio D-up Wade?  

As for Jonny Flynn...this kid is nasty...he can break ankles on a court...he is already  strong enough to play in the league.  He's got fire...you don't mess with this guy and he's got great defensive foot speed and he's definitely one of those guys you'd rather have on "your" team rather than have to play against.  He can score and yes pass.  Last year, he averaged 17-points, finished with 254 assists and 54 steals for Syracuse.  Compare that with James Harden who went third to the Thunder.  He averaged 20-points, had 148 assists and 59 steals. 

Finally, all I heard during Wolves broadcasts the last two years is that the Wolves need another big man to help Al Jefferson.  Why was there no big man picked?  Why not Tyler Hansbrough...why no wheeling and dealing to get a free agent or trade for a "big?"  Or are we just waiting for the 2010 free agent year?

I am waiting...and willing to give the rookie a chance.  But you see Mister Kahn...these fans are tired of rebuilding.  That's been going on for awhile...we thought that was ending...get some vets in here...make a push.  But we'll see what happens.