Guangdong tries out a 1.97-meter forward, Liaoning's new signing arrives! Shanghai offers for Knicks, Guo Ailun returns
After securing a three-game winning streak, Coach Du Feng can finally breathe a sigh of relief. However, the Guangdong Southern Tigers are still severely affected by the flu, with key players like Xu Jie and Huang Rongqi showing signs of improvement but still lacking energy. It is reported that the Guangdong team is currently trialing a 1.97-meter forward named Bart, who is known as a scoring force on the wing for Guangxi Weizhuang and has a playing style similar to that of former player Yi Jianlian. If Bart impresses Coach Du Feng, contract details will be discussed between the two parties.
Since the departure of the Yi-Jianlian duo, Guangdong has been searching for suitable replacements in the transfer market, but finding championship-caliber players has proven challenging. The implementation of the new foreign player policy, allowing seven foreign player appearances across four quarters, has led to significant investment from CBA teams in foreign talent acquisition. This makes it even more difficult for Guangdong, which traditionally operates within its means, to find satisfactory candidates in the player market. Fans hope that the club will consider foreign players with prior experience in China and give more opportunities to young domestic players.
According to Liaoning media, Liaoning Flying Leopards' new signing, Webber III, has arrived in the country. As a tall, ball-handling forward, Webber III is capable of cutting to the basket and possesses an accurate three-point shot. Alongside the 2.11-meter center Patton, the two will bolster Liaoning's interior defense in the second half of the season, providing much-needed rest for the team's veterans.
Following a loss to Zhejiang Guangsha, Coach Yang Ming switched from man-to-man defense to zone defense in the third quarter, a decision that drew criticism from Liaoning fans. However, this was just a regular-season game where coaches have room to experiment. It's better to identify issues now than during the playoffs. Players like Zhao Jiwei, who recently returned from injury, are not yet at their peak physical condition, and the two small foreign players are also fatigued from excessive playing time. When the team fails to capitalize on open three-point shots, it becomes difficult to secure victories. Fans should maintain a balanced perspective, as the regular-season standings are not overly important. The addition of one or two strong foreign players before the playoffs could significantly alter the team's strength.
Under the guidance of Coach Lu Wei, Shanghai Sharks have achieved a remarkable 13-game winning streak. The team's success is not only due to the foreign players but also the rapid growth of young domestic players, particularly Li Tianrong and Li Hongquan, who have become key contributors. However, Shanghai is not content with their current achievements. According to local media, Shanghai has made an offer to former Houston Rockets guard DeShawn Nichols, who was recently released by the Minnesota Timberwolves and is considered a powerhouse in lower-level leagues. Besides Shanghai, Beijing Ducks and Beijing Royal Fighters have also extended contract offers to Nichols. It remains to be seen which CBA team Nichols will ultimately join after some competition.
According to Guangdong media, Guo Ailun's recent leg injury recovery has been positive, and he is expected to return soon. With Guangzhou Long-Lions suffering an 11-game losing streak and low morale, Guo Ailun's return could help turn the tide. However, the team's main center, Jiao Boqiao, suffered a ligament tear and will be unavailable for the second stage, leaving only foreign player Crawford to man the frontline. There are no other young players with sufficient size to play the five position, putting Coach Mitchell in a tough spot. The team may have to rely on acquiring a foreign center to address their immediate challenges.