(c) PBA Media Bureau
One of the beauties of having imports on a conference is the fact that each team has the capacity to fill their holes, solve their problems, strengthen their primary weapons and etc.
So, let us checked the import choices of the franchises who already announced it. Did they make the right choice? Was the foreigner the right fit?
SMB - Charles Rhodes
The guy that led San Miguel to a 2017 Commissioner's Cup triumph is back to do it again in Charles Rhodes. Rhodes manufactured 28.4 points, 10.5 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game in his first stint with the Beermen.
Bringing back the import that helped them in winning a crown is a fine decision at the surface. With him in the roster, they can further beat any franchise in a playoff series by simply overpowering them. In terms of fit though, I do not think a super scorer is what the Beermen needs. He is not even that awesome on defense which could actually result in a net negative in the long run.
Grade: C
Blackwater - Alex Stepheson
I think San Miguel and Blackwater should swap imports. Stepheson is a hardworking inside behemoth who could be the strongest player in this upcoming conference. In 2017, he produced 15.6 points, 19.4 rebounds and 1.8 blocks per game.
Unfortunately, Alex doesn't have the ability to carry them offensively. He shot 48.4% in the field for the Bolts. He is also an inside operator, contracting the space that the young guards of the Elite badly needs.
Maybe, Blackwater wants to play a slow-pace, grind it out affair this conference. With Bobby Ray Parks at the top, it could be a fun thing to watch if it succeeds.
Grade: D
NLEX - Tony Mitchell
After watching his struggle to find a player who can consistently carry the team offensively, NLEX decided to go for a proven PBA scorer, Tony Mitchell. Mitchell averaged 21.3 points, 14.4 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 2.9 blocks per game.
When you checked the statistics of Tony on different international leagues, you will see that his shot blocking ability is legit and he is a passable three-point shooter. Thus, he will help on both ends of NLEX.
I just don't know if he has enough scoring moves to be a consistent 25 points scorer but if he can, NLEX could be having a fine good ride next conference.
Grade: B
Comments
Post a Comment