NBA Q&A: Zaza Pachulia

Posted by Unknown on Tuesday, May 14, 2013 with No comments
Courtesy of Chris Vivlamore

 Q. Was it tough not to be able to play in the playoffs?

A. It was hard to watch your team from the bench, especially when you play against a team like the Pacers that have great big guys. I’m sure I could be a little bit helpful so I feel disappointed.
Q. With your situation (unrestricted free agent), is it safe to say you want to be back?
A. How can’t I. I’ve been here eight years and I call Atlanta home. You guys know the relationship between me and fans. I would love to be back again. I’ve been in this situation, this is my third time being free agent and we all understand that this is a business. We’ll see when July comes and we’ll see what offers I get from what teams. I hope Atlanta will be one of them.
Q. How do you handle the uncertainty?
A. I feel very confident. Not only for this year but for 10 years I’ve been playing in the NBA. Teams know me. So my main focus honestly is to take care of this foot and start working out and get back in shape. The goal is to obviously be the best shape possible for next training camp. This is something that concerns me more than free agency honestly.
Q. How is the rehab coming along?
A. It’s great. I saw the doctor two weeks ago. I don’t have any crutches. So I’m moving forward every day. It’s a process. Doctors are pleased with how the surgery went and how the recovery is going. I feel great and very confident. I can’t wait to start working in the gym.
Q. Is there any fear that the injury will affect how teams view you during free agency?
A. There shouldn’t be. This is not something that I will miss a whole year. It’s just four to six months. One month already passed. I’m sure I’ll be 100 percent. Also, time wise, doctors told me I should be 100 percent by September when training camps start.
Q. Will you stay in Atlanta for your rehab?
A. I mentioned Atlanta is my home. Where else can I go? I will be here all summer. Obviously there is the possibility that I won’t be playing for the (Georgia) national team this summer so you guys are going to see me around.
Q. Is there any way you are allowing it to go through your mind that you won’t return here for a quote home-town discount?
A. Again, I hope so. I really hope so. I totally understand that the Atlanta Hawks have so much work to do this summer. (There are) so many free agents and key players and the coaching staff. It’s hard to say anything. Once time goes you’ll have a better idea of the big picture but right now it’s very, very hard to say from my standpoint and from their standpoint as well. I totally understand. I have reason not to think about it because of my foot. Right now the focus is to get back on track.
Q. It’s not certain that Larry (Drew) will be back. What is it that you appreciate about him the most being that you’ve had him as a coach and an assistant?
A. I’ve known him for eight years. We’ve kind of grew up together - him as a coach, he became a head coach, and where I started eight years ago to where I am now. We are on the same page. I respect him as a person, as a coach, as a professional. I think his made us better in the eight years and, obviously, has been part of the success of this organization, six straight playoff appearances. That is amazing. I wish him all the best. He deserves all the best.