Minnesota Timberwolves point guard Ricky Rubio is likely to return Saturday against the L.A. Clippers after missing five games with a sprained right elbow, head coach Tom Thibodeau told the Associated Press.

Rubio has responded well during Friday's practice and was ready to go, according to Thibodeau.

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The Spanish international was injured during the second game of the season. He stayed home during the team's recent three-game road trip to rehab his injury and was finally able to practice fully on Friday.

The team has missed Rubio's experience and defensive prowess during his absence. Rookie Kris Dunn has gotten the starts in his absence and second-year point guard Tyus Jones has been the primary backup.

Dunn has been slowly falling out of favor as he's failed to gain consistency in the scoring column. The rookie has not scored in double figures in four of his five starts, going a dismal 7-of-25 over the five-game stretch.

After plenty of offseason hype as one of the most promising teams, the Timberwolves are off to a disappointing 2-5 start and have home games against the Clippers and Lakers this weekend.