Ricky Rubio available against Clippers

MINNEAPOLIS - Minnesota Timberwolves coach Tom Thibodeau says point guard Ricky Rubio is available to play against the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday night after missing the previous five games with a sprained right elbow.

Thibodeau told reporters after the team's morning shootaround that Rubio responded well to practice on Friday and was ready to go.

Rubio was injured at Sacramento during the second game of the season. He stayed in the Twin Cities during the team's recent three-game road trip to rehab his injury and was able to practice fully on Friday.

Getting Rubio back will be key for the Timberwolves, who are off to a disappointing 2-5 start. Rookie Kris Dunn started in his place and second-year player Tyus Jones served as the primary backup.