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[av_heading heading=’No Devance for Gin Kings in PH Cup ‘ tag=’h3′ style=’blockquote modern-quote’ size=” subheading_active=’subheading_below’ subheading_size=’15’ padding=’10’ color=” custom_font=” av-medium-font-size-title=” av-small-font-size-title=” av-mini-font-size-title=” av-medium-font-size=” av-small-font-size=” av-mini-font-size=” admin_preview_bg=”]
BY ADRIAN STEWART CO
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MANILA – Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Kings might have a hard time in its quest for a back-to-back title with its star forward Joe Devance out until at least February.
The Filipino-American player will be out of commission during the PBA Philippine Cup eliminations after undergoing surgery to remove a bunion on the left foot, Kings head coach Tim Cone said.
“Joe need three months of recovery,” Cone said during the team’s victory party recently at the San Juan Arena. “He is a huge loss since he is a vital part of this squad.”
In Devance’s absence, Cone was looking to rely on his other forward, Arthur Dela Cruz, who will play for Kings for the first time since being traded from Blackwater Elite in August.
“This is one of the reasons we got Arthur dela Cruz from Blackwater. Just like Joe, he is a playmaker for his position,” Cone said. “But since he is coming from an injury, we have to be a little careful.”
Aside from Dela Cruz, Cone could also bank on returnees Earl Scottie Thompson, Kevin Ferrer, Ilonggo Juan Paolo Taha, and rookie Anton Manuel to fill the gap.
“We are optimistic of our chances in the Philippine Cup. We came close to making it last season even without Greg (Slaughter). So we like our chances,” said the 20-time PBA champion coach./PN
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