Timberwolves general manager David Kahn and Knicks president Donnie Walsh are friends. But that does not mean Kahn will do Walsh any favors when it comes to trading Ricky Rubio, the New York Post reports.
"There is just no way," Kahn told the Post.
Walsh has made it clear that the Knicks are interested in the point guard from Spain. However, it takes two to tango, and Kahn is not interested in any players on the Knicks roster.
"Donnie and I have talked a grand total of three times in the last nine months [about Rubio]," Kahn told the Post. "From the moment we talked, I said to him — and I mean no disrespect to the Knicks or Donnie — what kind of trade can they possibly propose?"
The 18-year-old Rubio, who was chosen by the Timberwolves with the fifth overall pick in the 2009 draft, currently plays for FC Barcelona. Sources have told ESPN.com that the point guard will not play in the United States until next year at the earliest.
According to NorthJersey.com, Kahn expects Rubio to play with the Timberwolves in the 2011-12 season. However, he also recognizes that things could change.
"I can’t predict the future,” Kahn said. “I can’t say for certain that something may happen to change that plan.”
The Post reports that the Knicks also are searching for a backup point guard. Sources say point guards Chucky Atkins, Steve Blake and Mike James are all available via trade.
