The news du jour regarding Spanish Basically, the argument of the agent (Germán González) centers on whether Rubio will get enough playing time in the NBA to suit his needs/desires. That's the public argument. Think about it, though. González represents Rubio (and his family, which is very involved) in European contract matters, for the player's European club career. If Rubio enters the NBA draft in '09, guess who is most negatively impacted? González. (And Joventut fans, I suppose.)
Dan Fegan is Rubio's U.S. agent. When Rubio gets drafted -- in 2009, in 2010 -- Fegan gets the commission. If Rubio's projected in the top five (more than $12 million guaranteed over four year) this season, will Fegan risk it by pushing Rubio back to the ACB? ESPN's Chad Ford knows Fegan and his style well ... and Ford said as recently as Tuesday that he believes Rubio will end up in the '09 draft.
Of course, don't take Ford's word at face: he has an interest, I assume, in making the draft class as interesting as possible. Don't take my word: my favorite team blows and needs a point guard, and I have a Rubio poster inside my locker.* Basically, don't believe anyone who talks about Rubio's draft status right now. Everyone's got motives of their own, and this kid comes with big stakes for all. Unfortunately, patience is required.
* Not true. The poster hangs over my bed.
