Michael Cunningham (AJC) reports that Hawks Forward Ersan Ilyasova has indeed exercised his right to reject the trades that the Hawks have presented to him. He appears to be very happy with his role here in Atlanta and would like to stay with the team.

While he’s not all the way sold on being traded he has stated he would be open to the idea if the right situation presents itself. He wants to keep his options open.

Ersan to AJC’s Michael Cunningham:

“There are a couple of days left and I want to see other options,” Ilyasova said after the Hawks defeated the Grizzlies Tuesday night. “But I am really kind of OK being here. We’ve got something good going on. We are trying to improve as a team. I want to see all (trade) options but I would really like to be here.” “I like the way we play and I like my role here,” Ilyasova said. “It’s not like written in stone (that he won’t accept a trade). There are two days left.”

Ilyasova has the ability to approve or reject a trade because he is eligible for “early Bird rights” next season. This might be another incentive for the veteran forward to stay. If he chooses to finish this season with the Hawks he could earn as much as 175% of his contract in his next signing at a minimum of 2 years and a max of 4 and raises each season. If he accepts a trade he would only be eligible to sign for 120% of his current contract at a minimum of 1-4 years.

In 41 games played this season Ersan is averaging 10.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game. He is shooting above average for a big man at 45.7%FG and 35% from 3. With these numbers, one could guess he would be a great asset to any team slated to make a playoff run this season.

How these trade presentations have flown under the radar is another story in itself. We will keep you updated on Ersan’s future with the Hawks as information is made available. Something is telling me he might be in for the long haul. The trade deadline is Thursday, keep your eye on the Hawks.

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