Fedor has a column on Rubio. Ricky is still in the process of working his way back from a serious knee injury.
“I’ve been trying to find my rhythm,” Rubio admitted. “Coming back in the middle of the season is hard.”
Even though he feels better physically now, there have been numerous moments this season when Rubio has felt -- and looked -- at least a step slow, when his body simply won’t cooperate. The passing windows close quickly. The lift isn’t there on his jumper. Defenders are staying in front. Some of those signature crafty movements he has grown accustomed to throughout his career are more taxing -- or just not doable...
The Cavs’ on-off splits are not nearly as attractive either. Only Robin Lopez and Mamadi Diakite have been worse in terms of points scored per 100 possessions. Rubio also has the fourth-lowest efficiency differential -- a number that calculates a team’s points scored per 100 possessions minus the team’s points allowed per 100 possessions.
Another challenge is figuring out how best to use him on the court.
“It is a work in progress of how he fits with two guards who for a majority of the year have done the majority of the ball-handling,” Bickerstaff said. “They’ve got to get comfortable getting off of it and going in the corner and allowing him to handle and make the play. I think there is a little bit of work there. I think we’re kind of figuring that out.”....
History says a player coming off a torn ACL, especially one who is 32 years old and has logged hard minutes during their professional career, is more likely to make an impact -- and get closer to their old form -- in the second year as opposed to the first.
History seems to be repeating -- even with Rubio sensing a breakthrough.
“Lately I feel more like myself,” he said. “I’m ready. I’m ready for the playoffs.”
From what I'm seeing he's not ready for the playoffs.
With no first round pick next year I'm thinking the Cavs, in order to beat the top three, will have to get significant improvement from Mobley, Rubio, and Wade. Now that Garland and Mitchell have had a season to play together they should be a better team next year as well.
Rubio just needs time and reps to get back to where he was last season. Mobley needs another six months in the weight room and working to get more accuracy on his jump hook and mid-range jumper. Wade needs to develop a more consistent 3-point shot.