In so many ways, this was the nightmare scenario for Tom Thibodeau: the point guard he didn’t want blasting the defense he can’t fix.



Ricky Rubio came to Target Center on Sunday night with his surging Utah Jazz, and his popularity in Minnesota only seems to have increased since he was traded away. Everywhere he turned at Target Center, there was a smiling face and a hug waiting for a player who endeared himself as much through the connections he forged as the oops he alleyed.



From Wolves owner Glen Taylor and wife Becky, who still swaps text messages with the Spanish point guard to this day. From Debbie Saunders, Flip’s widow who has been so touched by Rubio’s continued displays of affection for her husband since his passing. From dozens of fans and friends who waited for him in the arena bowl long after the game was over to grab a picture, share a laugh and wish him the best.



The warm feelings belied the tension that has run through...