What NBA lockout?
Just because the labor impasse may have put the kibosh on the 2011-2012 NBA season, doesn’t mean fans won’t get their fill of hardwood action.
Drew Gooden will host a charity game to benefit the Greater Bay Area Make-a-Wish Chapter and other non-profit organizations Sunday night in California and will feature Amar’e Stoudemire and following players:
Joakim Noah and Keith Bogans of the Chicago Bulls; Jason Terry, Shawn Marion and DeShawn Stevenson of the Dallas Mavericks; DeMar DeRozan of the Toronto Raptors; Al Harrington and Arron Afflalo of the Denver Nuggets; Nick Collison of the Oklahoma City Thunder; Jeremy Tyler and Dorell Wright of the Golden State Warriors; Eric Gordon of the Los Angeles Clippers; Anderson Varejao of the Cleveland Cavaliers; Jason Kapono of the Philadelphia 76ers; Leon Powe of the Memphis Grizzlies; and Marquis Daniels of the Sacramento Kings.
One player who also committed to play is Ricky Rubio.
That’s right, Rubio will finally get a chance to run with fellow NBA players and give fans a look at what he might bring to the Minnesota Timberwolves. The flashy passes, speed, and athleticism will be on full display but Minnesota fans should temper expectations despite his eventual great performance.
Yes, I know Timberwolves fans are chomping at the bit to see Ricky in action but let’s face it, these exhibition games have been all about offense and very minimal defense. These game have basically been run-and-gun for four quarters which will certainly play into Rubio’s style of play.
New coach Dwayne Casey is a defensive-minded coach and will probably reign in Rubio if and when the NBA comes back.
So soak it in Minnesota fans. Rubio will likely dazzle but holster your enthusiasm.
