By REYNALD MAGALLON
Akil Mitchell is expected to stay as Meralco’s import in the Commissioner’s Cup.
That, despite the 32-year-old forward expected to miss some games after breaking his nose in the Bolts’ victory over Rain or Shine earlier in the week. Head coach Luigi Trillo revealed that Mitchell is set to undergo surgery but assured that he will remain as the team’s import.
“I know he’s supposed to get an operation on the 9th (December) and then when the swelling subsides, he already has his mask fitted, he can play,” said Trillo after Meralco’s 94-91 escape over Terrafirma.
“Looks like Akil can play on the 25th. It depends. It’s day to day,” added the Bolts mentor, obviously pertaining to Meralco’ Christmas Day game against Converge.
In Mitchell’s place, Meralco’s other import in the East Asia Super League DJ Kennedy is playing as stand-in.
He made quite a debut for the Bolts with 32 points, six rebounds and four assists although not after bucking an early foul trouble that saw him pick up three fouls in his first few minutes on the court.
Since the rest between EASL games are quite long, Meralco is somewhat taking Mitchel’s injury a blessing in disguise as playing in the PBA would also allow Kennedy to keep his rhythm.
“Parang sabi ni Akil, parang blessing din na he’s out. DJ gets his feet wet. And he’s capable. We know he is. Glad we got the W,” said Trillo.
As for the team’s campaign in the EASL, Meralco is hopeful to have Mitchell back in time for their game on Dec. 18. If he is still not available, the Bolts are keen on sticking with Kennedy and naturalized player Ange Kouame.
“We believe in Akil,” Trillo. ‘Yung taong ‘yun, kahit on one leg, he’ll play. If he could play without the mask, he’d play. I think Akil is tough enough. The imports we have, the three guys we have, are just quality characters,” said Trillo.
“We won’t look for another import,” he added.
