The Golden State Warriors could soon find themselves drawing parallels between Steph Curry and Ricky Rubio once again. This potential connection arises from a move the Warriors might consider, reminiscent of a path Rubio once took during his career.
In the 2009 NBA Draft, the Minnesota Timberwolves made a controversial decision that became infamous over time. Holding both the No. 5 and No. 6 picks in a draft deep with point guard talent, they passed on Steph Curry, selecting Spanish guard Ricky Rubio and Syracuse’s Johnny Flynn instead. Curry, now widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history, fell to the Golden State Warriors, altering the league’s landscape forever. The Timberwolves’ choice paired Curry with Kevin Love in an alternate reality, potentially creating a dominant offensive team. Instead, Curry built a dynasty in Golden State while Rubio and Flynn struggled to meet expectations.
Fast forward to 2024, and Curry remains a superstar aiming for another title. Meanwhile, Rubio, who once showed flashes of brilliance as a passer and scorer, retired after an injury-plagued career that never reached All-Star heights or postseason success. This offseason, the Warriors signed guard De’Anthony Melton, hoping his defensive prowess and complementary skills would fit seamlessly alongside Curry. Initially, the partnership looked promising, but Melton suffered an ACL tear, sidelining him and forcing Golden State to reevaluate.
On December 15, the Warriors traded Melton for Dennis Schroder, acquiring a veteran guard to support Curry offensively. While Schroder provides immediate help, the move may also set the stage for Melton to return, echoing a chapter from Rubio’s career. After suffering an ACL tear in Cleveland, Rubio was traded midseason, only to re-sign with the Cavaliers in free agency once healthy. Though Rubio’s comeback didn’t pan out as hoped, his path offers a blueprint for the Warriors.
Melton’s injury likely makes him an affordable option in free agency, and his earlier success with the Warriors could make him a valuable piece in future seasons. If he recovers fully, Melton could rejoin the Warriors as they gear up for a playoff push in 2026. Should Golden State follow Rubio’s example, it could become another story linking Curry and Rubio in NBA history.