Zydrunas Ilgauskas Gets Buyout from Wizards: Return To Cleveland Cavaliers Next?

As expected, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, traded by Cleveland to Washington in the deal that sent Antawn Jamison to the Cavaliers, has agreed to a contract buyout with the Wizards.

Cavs beat writer Brian Windhorst of the Cleveland Plain Dealer tweeted the news overnight, adding in subsequent posts that Ilgauskas can become a free agent this weekend and that he would likely listen to offers from Denver and Dallas.

An article in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Wednesday speculated that the Hawks would also be interested in securing Ilgauskas’ services.

According to Windhorst, the Cavaliers remain a heavy favorite to sign Ilgauskas, who can sign with anyone once he becomes a free agent.

However, league rules state he cannot return to Cleveland until 30 days after the trade, which would delay his rejoining the Cavs until Mar. 21.

Ilgauskas is the Cavaliers’ all-time leader in games played and remains a fan favorite there. In 12 NBA seasons, he has averaged 13.9 points and 7.7 rebounds a game, all with Cleveland, and is a two-time All-Star.

This season, with Cleveland, he formed part of an effective tag team at center with Shaquille O’Neal.

Further updates from Windhorst can be accessed at the Plain Dealer ’s web site .