Ricky Rubio says Timberwolves 'almost traded' him this season, GM denies it

The Timberwolves have an exciting young core of players that would seem to be primed to make a fairly significant leap over the next few seasons. The overtime win over the invincible Warriors on Tuesday wasn't a fluke, because Minnesota has real talent on its roster that only needs a little more time to develop before becoming a legitimate threat in the coming years.

But one of the team's longest-tenured players may not be there when things finally begin to turn around.

Ricky Rubio has a decent enough NBA skill set, especially in terms of court vision and running the offense. But while his shooting has showed signs of improvement late this season, his numbers have remained stagnant five years into his career.

The Timberwolves can do better at the position, so it makes sense that they'd listen to trade offers where Rubio is concerned. And Rubio himself (via the Associated Press) says he was told directly that he was almost moved at the deadline this season.