Nets forward Andrei Kirilenko has taken a leave of absence from the team, and whether he returns or not is in question.
Kirilenko, known as AK47, is in the final year of a two year $6.5 million million contract with the Nets after turning down nearly $7 million more from the Timberwolves prior to last season.
After suffering from chronic back injuries last season, while still managing to contribute to the Nets playoff run, AK47 hasn’t seen much playing time from new coach Lionel Hollins. In seven games this season, the Russian forward has played a total of 36 minutes, pulling down eight rebounds, while going 0-5 from the field mainly during garbage time.
Kirilenko said Hollins as been open to him about the decision to drop his playing time.
“I appreciate it,” AK47 said, “but it doesn’t make things easier.”
Kirilenko will not be joining the Nets for at least their next two-games in Oklahoma City and San Antonio but it looks like his time as a Net are sadly coming to an end.
When asked if he thinks the former all star will re-join the team, Coach Hollins said “I don’t know.”
The Nets seemed to be set with with playing a four-man bench including Mason Plumee, Mirza Teletovic, Alan Anderson, and Jarrett Jack, leaving Kirilenko the odd man out.
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