The level of competition in the PBA today, has reached the point that the first of the fringe contenders who, will be honest with themselves, that they have not what it takes to get the crown, will be rewarded bountifully.
And in in my article, Rain or Shine Should Rebuild and Trade for Young Players and Draft Picks, I presented to you the idea of a rebuild for the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters.
I am pushing it into the next level by suggesting the trades, that they need to do, to make that bountiful future a reality.
The first guy on their trading block should be Yap. He will surely not be part of the bright future that we are trying to build.
But, his popularity is still through-the-roof. If you survey every Filipino today, I am pretty sure around 90% will recognize him. With that kind of marketability, a lot of growing franchises will love to have him.
James Yap to Blackwater
Blackwater is a perfume company. Being promoted by the Face of the PBA will surely propel their brand into a higher level.
Rain or Shine should capitalize on that.
Blackwater is not that dumb to give-up a 1st round pick for Yap. His production is just so bad right now, that you cannot justify a 1st round pick for him.
So, the Elasto Painters should ask for whom/what?
Chris Javier and Raphael Banal.
Javier is a former UE Red Warriors who slowly develop his game to reached the professional level. He was drafted in the 2016 draft by Star Hotshots.
Javier is only 26 years old and has shown the drive to improve his game. I doubt ifhe will ever be a starting caliber player, but he can be a reliable role player.
Raphael Banal is the more intriguing one. Banal, was technically the 1st pick on the 2nd round of the 2016 PBA draft.
Unfortunately, he did not pan out in the PBA, as expected. He was not aggressive enough to strike fear. His shots were not falling. His defense was not acceptable.
Fortunately, he is only 25 years old. His size and the canny ability that he showcased in the amateurs should still be respected.
He can still be a starting-caliber baller. If his confidence returns and learn how to breakdown defense and make the right passes, Banal will be on the right track.
The last advantage of getting those two is financial savings. Their combined salary is much lower than that of James Yap.
You may see those two as bench warmers, who do not deserve to be in equal with big game James. But, ask yourself, what will you give up for James Yap if you control the Elite?
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