Raymond Almazan formally traded to Meralco for draft picks

The PBA has approved the trade between Meralco and Rain or Shine last May 14 in a deal that sent Raymond Almazan to the Bolts in exchange of a 2019 and 2021 first round draft picks.

The PBA announced the approval of the trade in its website.

The Bolts finally got the big man they wanted after playing undersized and without a legitimate center for the past few years. The 6-foot-8 Almazan played for Rain or Shine since he was drafted third overall in 2013 and had stints with Gilas Pilipinas recently.

Controversy also shrouded Almazan’s stint with Rain or Shine. In the Governors’ Cup, Almazan went AWOL and didn’t show up in practice before Rain or Shine management stepped in which led to his return to the squad.

Almazan returned to the Elastopainters in the Philippine Cup and played six games where he averaged 8.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.17 blocks.

Meralco coach Norman Black looks forward to having Almazan in the team as he will bring stability in the inside game of the Bolts.

PHOTO: PBA website