Canaleta returns after surgery, but admits not yet in top shape

KG Canaleta said his timing and conditioning are still off in his first game back for Mahindra on Wednesday after missing the past three games.

Canaleta, who underwent appendectomy, last played on Aug. 26 when Mahindra beat the TNT in what still stands as the Enforcer’s last win.

“Yung timing wala pa, yung hangin, yung stamina wala pa. Sa gym medyo binabawi ko sa treadmill,” said Canaleta.

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“Siyempre matagal akong nawala, so yung rhythm ko nagaalangan pa ako tumira and yung confidence ko.”

The 36-year-old swingman said he hasn’t had enough practices, preventing him from getting into game shape.

Canaleta had 10 points on 2-of-6 shooting from the field in close to 22 minutes of action.

Mahindra takes on Meralco again on Saturday in the quarterfinals with the Bolts needing only one win to advance.

Canaleta feels he has enough time for him to get his bearings back before the crucial clash.

“Expect ko makukuha ko na timing ko. Kasi mabilis ko lang din naman makuha timing ko kahit na long break nakaka-recover ako agad mga two to three days okay na ako.”

He also thinks that the Bolts, who are 2-0 against the Enforcer this conference, can be beaten and all it takes is a little more push.

“Hindi naman imposible. Beatable naman sila. Kaya naman. Konting push pa.”