Rubio's back. (Getty Images)

ESPN 1500 in Minnesota reports that Ricky Rubio will return Saturday vs. the Dallas Mavericks. 

Rubio has been out since March following an ACL tear in his left knee. He was projected back in mid-December -- and lo and behold, mid-December is here and Rubio could return. There was talk that he could be back as soon as Wednesday night vs. the Nuggets but was ruled a late scratch.

The Timberwolves have badly needed Rubio as a playmaker. Their biggest weakness has been shooting, as they currently rank 26th in effective field goal percentage. While Rubio is no great shooter, his playmaking will create better open looks him teammates. 

The Mavericks are starting Derek Fisher at point guard, so this is a pretty good one for Rubio to ease his way back into. With Kevin Love and Rubio back, along with the rest of the team finally getting healthy outside of Chase Budinger, the Wolves may be in a position to get back on track and head toward the playoff spot they were expected to compete for.

Finally, Rubio could be back.