Ricky Rubio, #1 pick in the 2009 NBA Draft, saves the Sacramento Kings franchise

https://www.sacbee.com/kings/story/1799242.html

At 6-foot-4 and 180 pounds, with long arms and a slender, boyish frame, the 18-year-old Rubio is a clever ballhander, excellent with either hand, and a crafty, often flamboyant passer. Hence, the comparisons to Williams and Nash, as well as a physical resemblance to a young Maravich. But what makes Rubio particularly intriguing to the Kings is that he's a crossover; unlike the aforementioned NBA stars, none of whom were known for defense, the Barcelona native recently was named the Spanish League's Defensive Player of the Year.

This complicates Petrie's life, though in a good way. The Kings, who have a 46.5 percent chance of securing one of the top two picks, openly acknowledge their two most glaring weaknesses: Production at point guard and defense.

The absence of a dynamic, compelling star isn't lost on anyone over in Arco either, and in fact, strongly influenced the selection of Williams in 1998. Toward that end, at least in Europe, Rubio is nothing short of a sensation. Long regarded as Europe's best guard prospect since the late Drazen Petrovic (class of 1989), Rubio further enhanced his reputation by performing capably in the Beijing Olympics.

One member of the Kings organization went so far as to say because of roster weaknesses and Rubio's unique profile – charismatic floor leader who defends – Petrie hasn't precluded the possibility of maneuvering to acquire the Spanish star even if the organization owns the first pick.

Kings' coaching carousel must stop

"No more grand experiments," the basketball president said, with a quick laugh. Earlier, he narrowed the list of candidates significantly, virtually eliminating anyone without NBA head-coaching experience and "some level of success" within the league.

Until further notice – or unless the Kings are rejected by all their favored candidates – that means individuals such as Jeff Ruland, Ettore Messina, Kurt Rambis, Brian Shaw and John Whisenant apparently fail to make the cut, while Eddie Jordan, Mike Fratello, Jeff Van Gundy and Paul Westphal would seem to fit the profile.

Petrie also indicated his interest in one or two coaches currently involved in the playoffs. Further, should the Kings fare well at the May 19 draft lottery, winning the opportunity to draft Blake Griffin or Spain's Ricky Rubio, the coaching vacancy suddenly becomes more attractive.

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