Hawks won't rush Clark replacement

The Illawarra Hawks won’t rush a decision on finding their final import, despite number one target Gary Clark signing overseas.

Coach Justin Tatum says the Hawks are on the search for an “impact power forward”, but would lean upon the likes of young gun Lachlan Olbrich and veteran Todd Blanchfield to fill the void in the meantime.

"The rush part is getting him (the import) acclimated to us and how we play. Another option is to take your time to find the right piece with this group,” Tatum said on the balance required in recruiting.

"Lachie has been playing extremely well. He had a great NBL1 season.

"We have guys like Todd Blanchfield who can have a stretch forward, but we still want that impact power forward if we can."

Tatum arrived back in Australia on Monday night, and only hours later was on the practice court with his team.

He’s been keeping a close eye on the Hawks’ progress from afar, watching film from back in the US.

One thing Tatum didn’t need any evidence of though, the potential impact of import guard Trey Kell III.

The 28-year-old arrives at the Hawks after an impressive season in Adelaide, where he boasted averages of 17.1 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.6 assists a game.

"I've been pushing for Trey since we had an opportunity to get him," Tatum said.

"He scored a triple-double against us when he was with Adelaide last season. That's extremely hard to get.

"He is just a well-mannered and loved guy to play for and with. I heard a lot of great things about him and he is the type of guard I like. I like big guards who can do multiple things.

"I think him and Tyler (Harvey) are going to collab really well together."

The Hawks tip-off their pre-season campaign on Saturday against the Shanghai Sharks at the Snakepit, with the game to be streamed live and free via NBL+ on the NBL App.