In October 2016, almost all of us were shocked when we heard the news that James Yap and Paul were exchanging places.
At that time, it was pretty obvious what the Purefoods franchise was doing. They were moving on from an old and injury-prone face of their franchise to a young and dynamic new leader.
In the 2016 season, Yap's averages were 11.6 points, 36.3% FG, 29.9% 3FG, 2.9 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game.
There is no way you are going to win a championship if you have a player playing 26.8 minutes and producing those garbage numbers.
So, how can you say no to a Paul Lee who was manufacturing 16.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 40% FG per 36 minutes in 2016.
After the game yesterday, even James was honest enough to say, "actually, hindi ko na iniisip yun kasi ‘pag iisipin mo yun, nandoon yung gigil. Nandoon lahat eh na gusto mong magpakita. Siguro, aaminin ko noong mga bago pa lang na trade, pero ngayon, magtu-two years na"
I am pretty sure that when the Purefoods franchise made the trade in 2016, they never thought they will see the return of "Big Game" again. They cash-in his marketability and name recognition.
Yesterday, Purefoods just saw him again and suffered after James delivered his 17th million moves to win the game.
In eight games, James is averaging 14.8 points, 2.9 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 40% FG and 40% 3FG.
The points are back. The clutch shots are coming.
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