A key member of the French national team, Nicolas Batum wants to play next year in Minnesota with Spanish guard Ricky Rubio, sources say.

Batum is trying to force his way out of Portland. He wants to be a Timberwolves player and share the court with the All Star Kevin Love and the "Spanish sensation" Ricky Rubio.

Since he is a restricted free agent, the Portland Trail Blazers can match any offer for him, and it seems that they want to do that.

Maybe after the last meeting between Batum and the new general manager Neil Oshley they will let him to go.

Minnesota looks to be a first class fit for Batum, because they lack a good shooter and defender on the wing. These two qualities are probably the best that Nicolas bring on the court.

The addition of a player like Batum only a year ago would not have been there for a team like Minnesota