Minnesota Timberwolves point guard Ricky Rubio will miss the remainder of the season after he sustained an ACL tear in his left knee Friday night against the Los Angeles Lakers, according to multiple reports.
The Associated Press reported that Rubio had an MRI on Saturday, which revealed the injury.
The Star Tribune of Minneapolis was the first to report the news.
The report is devastating news for the Timberwolves who are fighting for a spot in the playoffs. Minnesota (21-20) is currently sitting in ninth place in the Western Conference, just beyond the threshold to make the playoffs.
As of Saturday afternoon, the Timberwolves are a half game behind the Houston Rockets for eight in the conference.
The injury came in the final seconds of the ‘Wolves 105-102 loss to the Lakers, when Rubio collided with Kobe Bryant as he tried to trap the Lakers guard near the baseline. He fell to the ground and had to be helped up by teammates.
Rubio, 21, along with forward Kevin Love, has been an important cog in Minnesota’s revival this season. The point guard was averaging 10.6 points and 8 assists per game for the T-Wolves.
The Star Tribune reported that rehab for the injury is six to nine months.
The injury also means Rubio, a member of the Spain national team, likely won’t be able to take part in the London Summer Olympics.
He was also being considered a candidate for Rookie of the Year.
