PBA: Ginebra Kings picks up Prince Caperal from free agency

So far, the attention over at the Barangay Ginebra camp is the return of Greg Slaughter. “Gregzilla” returns to action Saturday (Feb. 3) against the dangerous NLEX Road Warriors but his playing time will be controlled.

With Slaughter obviously still not at 100-percent, the need for a big man is apparent for Barangay Ginebra. Just a few days ago, the Gin Kings picked up Prince Caperal from free agency after Kia Picanto demoted the former Arellano stalwart to the unrestricted free list last Wednesday, Jan. 31.

Caperal was placed on the list after Kia activated Russell Escoto, Spin.ph reported.

Ginebra has been having a hard time manning the middle with most big men out on injuries. Joe DeVance continues to recuperate, leaving a big hole at center. Japeth Aguilar, Jervy Cruz, and the resurgent Raymond Aguilar have been trying to hold up the fort but coach Tim Cone is not taking any chances.

The Kings did down sister-team San Miguel Beer the last time out. However, Cone prefers not to be complacent.

“Big game for us to see if we can create some much-needed momentum this conference,” Cone said in a report by Tempo Sports. “It’s important for us not to relax after beating SMB. We have to keep our energy and intensity up.”

Caperal should help address that need against the Road Warriors, an added body in what is expected to be a highly physical match.