The Brooklyn Nets are making a strong push to bring Andrei Kirilenko back to the NBA despite their limited salary-cap flexibility, according to sources with knowledge of the situation.
After spending well over $300 million in guaranteed contracts this offseason, Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov is trying to convince his countryman to join the Nets now that Kirilenko announced in Russia that he wants to return to the NBA.
Sport Express in Russia on Tuesday quoted Kirilenko saying: "I want to decide my new team before the Olympics. There are several options in the NBA, but the final choice has not been made yet."
Kirilenko also told Ria Novosti, another media outlet: "I'll continue my career in the NBA. Which club in particular, we'll know in a day or two."
Kirilenko, 31, spent 10 seasons with the Utah Jazz before joining CSKA Moscow in his native Russia.
Considered one of the most versatile players during his time in the NBA, Kirilenko had a terrific season for the CSKA, averaging 14.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.9 blocks in 17 games in the Euroleague.
Kirilenko's contract with CSKA, which he signed during the lockout, was a three-year deal that pays him $4 million a year, with the option to leave for the NBA each summer if he chooses to do so.
