Cavs, Ricky Rubio agree to contract buyout: report

The Cavaliers and Ricky Rubio have agreed to sever ties.

Rubio, a 12-year NBA veteran, and the team have agreed on a contract buyout, according to an ESPN report.

Rubio announced Thursday on X, formerly Twitter, that his "NBA career has come to an end."

"July 30th was one of the toughest nights of my life," Rubio tweeted. "My mind went to a dark place. I kind of knew I was going [in] that direction, but I've never thought I wasn't under control of the situation. The next day, I decided to stop my professional career.

"One day, when the time is right, I would love to share my full experience with you all so I can help support others going through similar situations."

Rubio has been away from the team for the last several months while addressing his mental health. After tearing his ACL, an injury that cost him more than a calendar year, he signed a three-year, roughly $18 million deal before last season. This move will afford the Cavs, who were nearing the the luxury tax, some financial flexibility.

The buyout also likely points to Rubio not having much trade value around the league.

Rubio was a key member off the bench in the Cavs rotation during the 2021-22 season, averaging 13.1 points and 6.6 assists, before tearing his ACL. When he finally returned, he played in 33 games, but averaged only 17.2 minutes and 5.2 points.

Before this season, Rubio stepped away to deal address his mental health, which the Cavs supported.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Cleveland Cavaliers agree to contract buyout with Ricky Rubio