‘Important piece’ Lassiter regaining old form as SMB braces for semis

Marcio Lassiter reacts after knocking down a shot. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

As San Miguel braces for a tough grind against Rain or Shine in the 2016 Smart Bro PBA Philippine Cup semifinals, Marcio Lassiter is expected to be the difference maker for the Beermen.

San Miguel head coach Leo Austria knows how big Lassiter’s role has been for the team.

“Marcio is an important piece for us because he compliments our big men because of his perimeter shooting,” said coach Leo Austria.

Lassiter, dealing with personal problems, hit a few speed bumps in the Beermen’s last two outings as he failed to contribute on the offense even as he became a defensive liability.

But with the Beermen being given the outright semifinals slot, the long break has done Lassiter well.

“I’m happy to see him back. He’s getting his conditioning back but he’s still going to struggle a bit when it comes to rhythm,” Austria said. “Once he gets back in shape, he will be a good help for the team.”

Two-time MVP June Mar Fajardo also noted Lassiter’s improvements in practice, and believes that the gunslinger will once again catch fire come the seven-game series against Rain or Shine.

“Marcio is playing well. Hopefully, his game steps up in the semifinals. We know Marcio, for sure he can do that,” said the gentle giant.

But it’s not just Lassiter who has benefitted greatly from the break as other players who are recuperating from injury also took advantage of it.

“It’s an advantage for us because players like Marcio and other injured players like David (Semerad) were able to recoer, they can play now so that’s a big help,”

The outspoken team captain, however, is confident that rust would not be an issue for the defending Philippine Cup champions.

“It’s hard if you become rusty. But we’re playing well in practice and our mind is set for the semis because Rain or Shine is not an easy opponent,” Santos said.