Suns PG Ricky Rubio replaced in starting lineup due to back spasms

Point guard Ricky Rubio was a late scratch from the starting lineup as the Phoenix Suns geared up to take on the Boston Celtics Monday.

Rubio had been dealing with back spasms and the decision was made after the veteran went through his normal pregame warm up.

Suns announce Ricky Rubio is now doubtful for tonight’s game due to back spasms.

Jevon Carter is starting.

— Kellan Olson (@KellanOlson) November 19, 2019

The matchup was the final game of a six-game homestand for the Suns and the day off will give Rubio a chance to recover before a stretch of five games in seven days for Phoenix as they hit the road.

Although he was a late scratch from the starting lineup, Rubio was not ruled out for the game and was in uniform on the bench. He was not put into the game, however.

Jevon Carter was named the starting point guard in his place. It was Carter’s second start on the season, although the second-year player has appeared in 10 of the Suns’ first 11 games this season.

Rubio averaged 32.3 minutes per game and leads the Suns in assists and rebounds.

Devin Booker and Elie Okobo could also see time at point guard if Rubio is unable to take the floor. Booker is second on the team in assists averaging 5.9 per game while Okobo has seen action in just six games this season under first-year head coach Monty Williams.

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