The CB Canarias club is preparing for what appears to be a change of cycle in the 26/27 season. Despite more than half of the current squad having valid contracts or the option to extend them, the sports management faces the challenge of finding a new coach and deciding between a deep restructuring or a more moderate one.
The departure of Txus Vidorreta, who is expected to join Casademont Zaragoza, is shaping up to be the first major move. The club is expected to make this decision official this Monday at a press conference. Names like Diego Ocampo and Carles Duran have been mentioned as potential replacements, although Jaka Lakovic appears to be the leading candidate.
The roster for the upcoming season includes eight players with contractual ties: Joan Sastre, Rokas Giedraitis (with an option until 27/28), Gio Shermadini, Jaime Fernández, Tim Abromaitis, and Wes Van Beck. The club also has the unilateral option to renew Fran Guerra, and there is a possibility of extending Bruno Fitipaldo's contract.
Players like Guerra and Fernández are considered key figures due to their performance and 'cupo' status. Shermadini's continuity could be affected by a recent arrhythmia. Rokas Giedraitis's long-term injury might open the door for Thomas Scrubb's renewal, given the shortage of players in the small forward position.
Other cases to analyze include Marce Huertas, who might retire or continue for another year, and Aaron Doornekamp, whose age and physical issues could lead him to retirement. Héctor Alderete, due to his youth and potential for improvement, is seen as an option for the team's depth. Dylan Bordón might move to the NCAA. Patty Mills's continuity is considered unlikely.
In contrast, Kevin Yebo has been a pleasant surprise, winning over fans with his performance. Although he has a contract with his German club, Chemnitz, he has a buyout clause. Elvar Fridriksson has not met expectations, partly due to Huertas's recovery.
The summer looks long for the CB Canarias's sports management, led by Aniano Cabrera and Nico Richotti. The successful execution of their decisions will be crucial for initiating a new hopeful cycle.
