MANILA, Philippines – Just when Jeron Teng has proved he can be a decent contributor to Alaska’s campaign in the 2018 PBA Commissioner’s Cup, an unfortunate incident sidelines him. 

Teng is bound to miss time for the Aces as he recovers from 3 stab wounds – one in the back and two in the side of his body – he sustained following a brawl outside a bar in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig on Sunday, June 3. 

In a report by Reuben Terrado of Spin.ph, Aces head coach Alex Compton even said he will be “surprised” if the 24-year-old will suit up for the rest the mid-season conference. 

Fortunately for Teng, who underwent two operations to get fully stitched up, the attack did not damage any of his vital organs. 

So what will the Aces miss from the rookie? (WATCH: The brawl that triggered the Jeron Teng stabbing incident)

Without Calvin Abueva, who missed Alaska’s 109-103 win over the GlobalPort Batang Pier last June 2 following a string of absences in team practices due to personal issues, Teng rose to the occasion. 

Seeing action in the most minutes he had played for in a while, the former La Salle star submitted 8 points, 10 rebounds and two steals in 22 minutes of play and had the 3rd-highest plus-minus of +9 in the win.

That was Teng’s best performance in 6 games this conference after averaging just 3.6 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.0 assist in the first 5 outings.

With the 5th overall pick sidelined, Alaska will be missing his slashing ability made more deadlier by his stocky 6-foot-2 frame. But most importantly, it is his rebounding that has been the most effective for Alaska, which boasts a 5-1 record. 

Teng is averaging 4.3 rebounds this conference – the 4th-highest among the Aces – with 4.3 points. He is Alaska’s best rebounding guard, with import Antonio Campbell and forwards Abueva and Vic Manuel leading the department. 

For now, Teng will turn into a spectator as the Aces face the Magnolia Hotshots next on Sunday, June 10, at the Araneta Coliseum. – Rappler.com