Ginebra’s Next Move: Top 3 Trade Targets to Bolster Their Roster
Barangay Ginebra is once again left reeling from another painful Finals loss, falling short against TNT in the Commissioner’s Cup Finals. With the All-Filipino Cup looming, the question now is: Does Ginebra need to make a move to strengthen their roster?
On paper, they already boast the most talented lineup in the PBA, with a core featuring Scottie Thompson, Jamie Malonzo, Japeth Aguilar, Troy Rosario, Stephen Holt, RJ Abarrientos, Maverick Ahanmisi, Jeremiah Gray, and LA Tenorio. However, as seen in the Finals, having depth doesn’t always guarantee a championship—especially when faced with a powerhouse team like TNT.
With TNT now just one title away from a Grand Slam, San Miguel Corporation (SMC) must consider making Ginebra an even tougher roadblock to prevent TNT from achieving history. If Ginebra is looking to retool and reinforce its roster, here are the top three trade targets that could help them in their championship pursuit:
#3. Will Navarro (Converge FiberXers)
Of the three main trade chips from Converge (Navarro, Jollo Go, and Justin Arana), Navarro is the easiest fit for Ginebra. His versatility allows him to play multiple positions, making him an ideal piece alongside Malonzo and Rosario.
Navarro’s impact goes beyond scoring—he can defend, pass, and move well without the ball, making him a perfect complement to Ginebra’s system. With Converge’s ongoing struggles, a deal for Navarro might not be too difficult to pull off.
#2. Jeo Ambohot (Converge FiberXers)
While Ginebra already has Japeth Aguilar and Christian Standhardinger (if he returns from injury), adding another mobile big man who can stretch the floor would be a wise move.
Ambohot fits that mold perfectly. He has a modern big-man skill set, with the ability to hit outside shots and protect the rim. More importantly, he won’t command a high price in a trade, making him an affordable but impactful acquisition.
#1. Aris Dionisio (Magnolia Hotshots)
If Magnolia is willing to let go of Aris Dionisio, Ginebra should make a strong push to acquire him. He is arguably the best 3-and-D forward in the PBA today, a skill set that would make him an instant contributor for Tim Cone’s team.
Dionisio’s ability to guard multiple positions, stretch the floor, and hit timely three-pointers would make him an invaluable asset, especially in the playoffs. Among the three trade targets, he is the most impactful addition Ginebra could make—if SMC is open to an in-house transaction between sister teams.
Will Ginebra Pull the Trigger?
Given their already loaded roster, Ginebra doesn’t necessarily need a blockbuster trade, but a smart addition could make the difference in stopping TNT’s Grand Slam pursuit.
Of the three, Dionisio would provide the most immediate impact, while Navarro and Ambohot could serve as long-term pieces for the Gin Kings. If SMC is serious about keeping TNT from cementing its place in PBA history, making a move now could be their best counterpunch.
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