NLEX Road Warriors are expected to play without an import when they face the Converge FiberXers in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup on Friday following the recent injury of DeQuan Jones.
A source familiar with the team’s plans told Abante Bilyonaryo Group’s Homer Sayson that reasons behind the decision are the Road Warriors’ 7-2 record, giving them some room to absorb a setback while they assess their next move.
NLEX can also use the 53-day break that follows Friday’s game to thoroughly search for an import who can provide a better long-term fit instead of settling for a short-term replacement for Jones.
Jones suffered a serious right leg injury during NLEX’s overtime victory over TNT Tropang 5G earlier this week. The 36-year-old American was stretchered off the court and subsequently underwent surgery in the Philippines.
Jones had been a key part of NLEX’s impressive run before his injury, making his absence a significant blow to a team that remains among the contenders in the conference.
The Road Warriors will therefore likely turn to their deep local rotation against Converge before using the extended break to identify and secure their next reinforcement. (By the Staff)
