San Miguel veteran Vic Manuel finds himself back in the rumor mill, this time swirling around a possible trade within the PBA. This comes on the heels of Manuel shutting down speculation about a move to the MPBL.
It's no secret Manuel battled injuries throughout the Commissioner's Cup, ultimately sitting it out entirely. While he suited up for San Miguel's opening Philippine Cup game, his health remains a question mark. This could be a factor in the Beermen's reported decision to explore trade options for the high-energy big man.
Should San Miguel pull the trigger?
The answer hinges on Moala Tautuaa's future with the team. Tautuaa, the dynamic veteran center, emerged as a force in the Commissioner's Cup, showcasing a similar skillset to Manuel – rebounding, hustle, and interior presence. If San Miguel can secure Tautuaa's long-term commitment, trading Manuel becomes a more palatable option.
Here's why:
Health Concerns: Manuel's recent injury history raises questions about his reliability. Tautuaa offers a younger, healthier alternative.
Roster Flexibility: Moving Manuel frees up a roster spot, allowing San Miguel to pursue other needs, be it another big man or a different positional fit.
Value on the Trade Market: Despite the injuries, Manuel's experience and championship pedigree could still hold value for teams needing frontcourt depth.
However, there are arguments for keeping Manuel as well:
Proven Winner: He's a two-time PBA champion with a knack for making winning plays.
Veteran Leadership: His experience can be invaluable for a young core, especially if Tautuaa remains unproven over a full season.
Chemistry: There's existing chemistry between Manuel and the core group, which can be crucial for playoff success.
Ultimately, the decision rests on San Miguel's front office. They need to weigh Manuel's potential trade value against his on-court contributions and locker room presence. If Tautuaa's future is secure, trading Manuel could free up resources and inject some youth into the frontcourt. But if they envision Manuel as a key piece for their championship aspirations, holding onto him might be the smarter move.
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