(c) PBA Media Bureau
It seems like the Magnolia and Rain or Shine franchise will forever be connected because of one of the biggest swap in the history of the league.
The Paul Lee versus James Yap match-up will again be the focus of the best-of-seven series that will determine one of the finalists of the 2019 Philippine Cup.
Unlike in the past season, this season may be better because Big Game James is having a renaissance season. He is manufacturing 14.7 points, 3.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 40% 3FG per game.
On the other hand, Paul Lee was an unstoppable force in their series-clinching win against Ginebra, pouring 25 points, 5 three-pointers, 5 assists, 3 steals and 60% FG.
One interesting thing to watch in the series is how will Magnolia treat the three-point shooting of Rain or Shine. Elasto Painters have a plethora of shooters, including several of their frontliners.
In their two wins against Ginebra, Magnolia forced Ginebra to be very inefficient from beyond the arc but we all know that Ginebra actually does not have competent shooters.
Now, Magnolia gave up a lot of attempts from beyond the arc against Ginebra. If they do that against Rain or Shine, I do not think it will be a happy day for the Hotshots.
Prediction
One thing that is bothering me about Rain or Shine is their lack of assists. In their elimination game against Magnolia, they only delivered 13 dimes. That game was a defensive struggle and they managed to come up on top.
For game 1, I actually expect the shooting of Rain or Shine to connect. But, I do not think it may be enough. Magnolia will come to the game still on ecstasy after eliminating Ginebra and that will push them to get the early lead in the series.
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