AJC: Ilgauskas “impressed� with Hawks but plans to return to Cleveland

[Hawksquawk]

The agent for Zyrdunas Ilgauskas confirmed today that Big Z plans to return to the Cavaliers, ending the Hawks’ pursuit of the 7-foot-3 center.

“He was very impressed by the (Hawks’) efforts to sign him,” agent Herb Rudoy wrote in a text message. “He spoke to a couple of (Hawks) players and was really encouraged by them to play in Atlanta. At the end his long relationship with the Cavs won out.”

Rudoy said Ilgauskas would return to Cleveland “if a suitable contract can be agreed upon” when negotiations can officially start on March 22 but Ilgauskas obviously wouldn’t wait around that long if there were any chance a deal won’t be reached. Ilgauskas must wait until 30 days after Cleveland traded him to re-sign with the team.

Ilgauskas is the only free agent the Hawks were considering for their 14th roster spot. Barring injury, the Hawks plan to carry the league minimum 13 players for the rest of the season.

MC

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[WraithSentinel]

I have a feeling this pursuit had more to do with this offseason. When Big Z become a FA again. He will have the Hawks toward the top of his list. I think he will consider them very strongly after the Cavs when deciding where to go.