CHRISTIAN David and RK Ilagan are currently on minutes restriction after recovering from their respective injuries prior to the PBA 50th Season Commissioner’s Cup.
Blackwater coach Jeff Cariaso said David underwent minor surgery to remove bone spurs while Ilagan has recovered from a meniscus strain that kept him out for most of the Philippine Cup.
“To be honest, we just got RK and CD back just last week. So during the whole preparation, wala sila because they were rehabbing, they were recovering, they were getting better. So they had minimal practice time. So they were on minutes restriction that’s why they didn’t play that long,” said Cariaso.
READ: Bolick, Lalanne help NLEX escape with a close win over Blackwater
David and Ilagan each played 16 minutes in their 84-81 loss to NLEX. David had 12 points on 6-of-9 from the field, and Ilagan scored two.
“When our main guys are back and they are healthy, they are 100 percent, then hopefully, we’re a lot better team,” said Cariaso.
The hope is that the minutes restriction will be lifted on Wednesday when Blackwater faces league-leader Terrafirma at the Ynares Center-Antipolo.
“Hopefully, by next game. But like I said, wala silang tune-up games. ‘Yung pinaka up-and-down nila was our scrimmages and practices. So again, we’re developing, we’re growing,” Cariaso said.
Cariaso was happy that several players were able to step up in the additional minutes that were given to them against NLEX.
“I want to commend a lot of guys who have been consistent, who have been working hard, and the guys who started the game. Guys like BJ (Andrade), David Murrell, Jed (Mendoza), those guys are really doing a good job. You want to reward those guys that work hard and are consistent,” said Cariaso.
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