Timberwolves’ Ricky Rubio to have ankle surgery

The Minnesota Timberwolves released the following statement on behalf of Timberwolves President of Basketball Operations and head coach Flip Saunders regarding Ricky Rubio:

“We have closely monitored the status of Ricky’s ankle injury during the rehabilitation process. Ricky recently experienced ongoing soreness in his left ankle and it became apparent that it was not responding according to its anticipated timeline for recovery. As part of this process we sought numerous opinions as to the best course of action. Ricky was most recently seen by Dr. Richard Ferkel of the Southern California Orthopedic Institute in Los Angeles and it was concluded that the best option would be to pursue diagnostic arthroscopic surgery on his left ankle.

At the time of his initial injury we stated the importance of Ricky’s long-term health. He is an integral part of our future and we are taking every precaution to ensure that he will be able to perform to the best of his ability next season. This decision was one that was reached between Ricky, his representatives, the Timberwolves organization and the foremost practitioners in this field of orthopedics.

The surgery will be performed on Monday by Dr. Richard Ferkel of Southern California Orthopedic Institute in Van Nuys, California. A further update on Rubio's estimated recovery period and anticipated return to basketball activities will be provided following the procedure.”