Unrestricted free agent Ricky Rubio has revealed that the Utah Jazz have told him they will likely not offer him a new contract:
Ricky Rubio says he's not a priority for Utah https://t.co/rNs8X9IZq6
— NBC Sports EDGE Basketball (@NBCSEdgeBK) June 2, 2019
Rubio played for the Jazz for two seasons after spending six seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves. This year, he averaged 12.7 points and 6.1 assists per game in 68 games.
The Jazz will presumably pursue a better backcourt fit for budding star Donovan Mitchell. Mitchell is a dynamic scorer but has yet to discover a consistent three-point stroke. Rubio, a career 32 percent shooter from deep, is not enough of a threat to open driving lanes for Mitchell.
Even though he isn't a great shooter, Rubio will definitely garner interest on the free agent market. He is a savvy veteran guard who is known for his great court vision and passing ability. He also has a little playoff experience now, after making the playoffs in both seasons with the Jazz.
A team who is looking for a guard to complement scorers will pick Rubio up. Perhaps the Phoenix Suns, who are in dire need of a point guard, will offer him a contract. Pairing Rubio up with dynamic scorer Devin Booker and Deandre Ayton could help the Suns take a step back into relevance.
Wherever he ends up, Rubio will provide quality passing and leadership. It's looking less and less likely that team will be the Jazz.
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