Wolves' Rubio aggravates ankle injury in win over Hawks

The young Minnesota Timberwolves continued their ahead-of-schedule rise with another impressive win Wednesday, outlasting the Atlanta Hawks 99-95. It may, however, have come at a cost.

Point guard Ricky Rubio aggravated a left ankle injury he picked up in Monday against the Philadelphia 76ers, and was forced to the sidelines after playing 21 minutes.

There's no word yet on the severity of the injury, but it's the latest in a disconcertingly long line of ankle issues for the brittle 25-year-old. Rubio underwent surgery on the same ankle in the spring after being limited to just 22 games last season. He's also missed time this season due to a hamstring strain.

The Timberwolves had better hope it isn't serious, because they're performing 14.7 points per 100 possessions better with Rubio on the floor. They're now 7-4 in games he's suited up for this season, as opposed to 0-4 when he sits.

Rubio had five points and six dimes before the injury drove him from the game. He came in averaging a career-high 11.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 8.7 assists.

The Wolves' win was their second over the Hawks this season.