Guiao mulls trades as Lee returns

MANILA, Philippines – With Paul Lee finally agreeing to re-sign with Rain or Shine, coach Yeng Guiao has another problem. But a good one, according to the mercurial mentor.

Guiao has picked up a handful of guards led by second overall pick Kevin Louie Alas and ninth overall choice Jericho Cruz during the PBA Rookie Draft as an insurance in the event Lee does not re-sign with the team.

But that is already moot and academic with both camps finally reaching an accord after a heart-to-heart meeting on Tuesday morning at Rain or Shine's practice gym in NEGA Gym in Greenhills, San Juan City.

"Sana pumirma na siya before he leaves for Incheon. So that we can start working ahead," Guiao told Philstar.com.

With a loaded backcourt, Guiao is contemplating on unloading a player or two to make room for Alas and the returning Lee.

"Pag-uusapan pa yan. First thing first, we have to sign up Paul. After that, we'll call a coaching staff to determine the best thing to do with the lineup. Talagang madaming guards, we need to consider unloading pero wala pa naman kaming desisyon," Guiao said.

After Lee's contract impasse that saw Guiao and his agent Lawrence Chongson trade verbal jabs on media, the temperamental coach assured Lee that nothing has changed in their relationship.

"Madali lang naman kaming mag-adjust, magkakapatid kasi ang turingan ng mga players at I treat them as my family. So the moment na sinabi niyang gusto niyang bumalik at maglaro sa amin, tapos ang problema. We're back to normal," Guiao said.

Lee is expected to meet with Rain or Shine management led by team owners Raymond Yu and Terry Que anytime soon before signing the three-year Php15.12 million maximum deal.