Let the dog days of summer begin...

I hate this part off-season. Every NBA fan knows what I mean--the time when nothing's going on. The time when no one seems to be talking about the NBA, and rather the MLB and the Roy Halladay drama. The time when fans attempt to discuss the NBA, but finally hit a wall. And on this quiet, summer day in July, I'm forced to write about something non-Raptors related. So, attempt to sit back, and enjoy.

Ricky Rubio says he will part ways with his Spanish team, DKV Joventut, even if the Timberwolves can't bring the 18 year old PG to the NBA. Timberwolves President David Kahn was in Spain this past week to negotiate a buyout of Rubio's contract with Joventut. Rubio and Joventut are at odds over a buyout clause that could cost Rubio $6.6M. Under the NBA's collective bargaining agreement, the Timberwolves can only contribute $500,000.

Even if Rubio decides not to play with Minnesota next year, he won't play under Joventut.

"I want to continue with the club but, after everything that's happened, I don't think they're too comfortable having me in their squad," said Rubio. "I want to play in a winning team, on a team that can achieve many things."

Rubio has two seasons left on his deal with Joventut. Considering Rubio made less than $100,000 last season, he doesn't have the financial assistance to leave his Spanish ball club.

Both Real Madrid and Barcelona are interested in signing Rubio to a deal. Unlike the Timberwolves, the respective Spanish teams aren't subject to the collective bargaining agreement, and have the option to pay the entire buyout fee.

Considering all this drama surrounding Rubio, I fail to understand why David Kahn drafted Rubio, especially since he drafted Jonny Flynn. Why go through all the problems with Rubio, when the team could have drafted Flynn and another rookie? It doesn't make sense to me, and it looks like Rubio will not be playing in the NBA next season. Regardless, I think Ricky Rubio will have a fantastic NBA career.

According to sources, contract talks have resumed between the Lakers and Lamar Odom. Last week, the Lakers withdrew their contract offers to Odom because Odom's agent began talking with other teams. Except Lamar Odom to return to LA--I can't imagine the team parting ways with both Odom AND Ariza.

Pretty boring day. Hopefully, some Raptors news will break in the next few days.