What does the future hold for Ricky Rubio and the Utah Jazz?

Ricky Rubio was an integral part of the unexpected playoff run that the Utah Jazz experienced this year. Does he fit into the team’s long-term plans?

By the end of the 2017-18 season, Ricky Rubio had become a staple of the young Utah Jazz core that worked itself into the Western Conference Semifinals. Despite not being expected to even make the playoffs by many, the Jazz proved that they are on their way to hanging with the league’s elite teams.

Although rookie Donovan Mitchell took much of the spotlight, and deservedly so, Rubio was as vital to that success as anybody on the Jazz roster.

After being traded from the Minnesota Timberwolves last year, it took Rubio a while to adjust to Quin Snyder’s system. In fact, he struggled for most of the first half of the season. He really came into his own during the second half of the year, as his 3-point shot improved dramatically.

However, potentially Rubio’s most important contribution doesn’t show up on the stat sheet. He developed into a much-needed leader, who was respected throughout the locker room.

https://twitter.com/rickyrubio9/status/994132992732811264

The evolution of Ricky

Rubio’s transformation from young Spanish phenom to emerging veteran leader has been incredible to watch. He hasn’t lost a step, but is changing his game to serve his team best. Ricky has been vocal, and it’s clear from his statements and actions that he loves the Jazz and his teammates.

In his exit interview, he expressed just how much he cares, and as well as his excitement about the upcoming season —

During his time in Utah, Rubio has impacted the team in more ways than on the court and in the locker room. He has been a tremendous asset to the community as well. His contributions to 5 for the Fight have not gone unnoticed around the league. Rubio lost his mother to cancer, so this cause hits close to home for him.

He’s nominated for the NBA Community Assist Award and is very deserving of the honor given how much he’s done. Be sure to check in on June 25th to see if Rubio wins the award.

What does the future hold for Rubio?

Given all that Ricky has done, the Jazz should strongly consider signing him long-term. Next season is the last year of his contract, and he’ll make approximately $14 million. He wants to be with the Jazz, and it would be wise on the organization’s end to reciprocate that desire.

Next: Utah Jazz: 5 most gut-wrenching moments of the last year

At only 27, Rubio can be a key piece of this core going forward, and to overlook all that he’s done in his short time here would be a mistake. Finding a player who is as impactful as he is both on and off the court is hard to do these days. Hopefully, the Jazz can continue their success next year, and should they thrive, Ricky Rubio will undoubtedly be a driving force behind that success.