Ginebra targets David Murrell to reinforce its banged-up roster

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

The Barangay Ginebra San Miguel’s search for late replacements to their injured roster begins after they reportedly set their sights on free agent David Murrell who last played for the Magnolia Hotshots Chicken Timplados.

It was Ginebra head coach Tim Cone who bared their moves during their 87-83 win over the TNT Tropang Giga five days ago.

“I think we already put a claim in for David Murrell. And we’re waiting to see if anybody else is going to pick him up,” said the decorated Ginebra mentor.

It has been an unfortunate turn of events for the Gin Kings after recently losing the services of their athletic swingman Jamie Malonzo who was diagnosed with a left calf tear.

According to PBA reports, Malonzo will need at least eight weeks to fully heal his left calf and might be back for Ginebra if they book a ticket to the playoffs.

Aside from Malonzo, the Gin Kings are also marching to battle this Philippine Cup without Jeremiah Gray and Aljon Mariano who are still battling respective injuries.

“We’re looking for help. We’re looking for help outside the lineup to fill that void,” added Cone after their win.

Murrell, who has been declared a free agent by the Chicken Timplados, will most likely head to Ginebra if no PBA team shows interest in signing him.

As of now, the Gin Kings are the only franchise that targeted Murrell and will quickly join the team once both parties are done clearing their waivers.

After nine games in the Philippine Cup, Ginebra already won six and lost three and is sitting at the no. 3 spot in the standings.

The Gin Kings had a rough start when the conference began, dropping two quick games but recovered in time after winning three consecutive games against TNT, NorthPort, and Blackwater.