Northwest Notes: Arthur, Nuggets, Rubio, Hill

The Nuggets plan to monitor the minutes for Darrell Arthur for the rest of the season, writes Christopher Dempsey of The Denver Post. That will include games and practices as Arthur deals with soreness related to a lateral release knee procedure he had during the offseason. Arthur recently had the knee drained and may have to do that several more times before the season ends. “He had two hard practices in London and his knee swelled up because of it.” said coach Michael Malone. “So I have to protect him from himself, and, obviously, if we want him in games we have to limit his practice time so we can get him in the game as much as possible. So that’s just something we have to keep our eye on, and I have to trust and listen to our medical staff so we’re making sure we put Darrell in the best position possible.”

There’s more from the Northwest Division:

  • It’s important for the Nuggets to make the playoffs this season, contends Mark Kiszla of The Denver Post. The team currently holds the eighth seed at 18-24, one game better than the Trail Blazers. There’s little to be gained from another late lottery draft pick, Kiszla argues, saying that playoff experience would be valuable for the team’s young core.
  • The Ricky Rubio trade rumors show that the Timberwolves‘ point guard is undervalued, writes Jesse Blancarte of Basketball Insiders. Rubio is one of the top defenders in the league at his position and is an asset on offense even with his shooting limitations because of his vision and passing, Blancarte argues. Plus he is signed through 2018/19 at an average salary of $14.25MM, which is a good value for a starter.
  • Jazz point guard George Hill put up 30 points, six rebounds and five assists Saturday night in his first game against the Pacers since they traded him last summer. Hill told Nate Taylor of the Indianapolis Star that he wasn’t trying to send a message to his former team. “No, no statement needed,” Hill said. “I was making shots and making plays and just trying to win and do the best I can to get everyone involved and have fun out there. I’m probably my biggest critic. It’s always good to get a win and play well at the same time.”
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