Board Thread:Questions and Answers/@comment-31283382-20151212005030/@comment-5398287-20151212005947

We've only even seen that Sogyo no Kotowari can redirect energy attacks like Ceros. Given that Trompete was really just a massive blast of force rather than an energy-based attack, I don't think Ukitake would've been of any help in redirecting its power.

Also, Nanao needed a spotlight waaaay more than he did, so she's hardly a mere substitute.