Think there is a large sentiment among fans of needing to give minutes so guys don’t transfer...
TLDR - no such thing as not enough minutes.
I don't think that's the case with the fans, here. If I'm wrong, I agree that the sentiment is unproductive. With that said, that is not the issue with this situation.
Until we learn otherwise, we should operate under the assumption that there is such a thing as not enough scholarships. In order of priority, next year's team could really use a big guy, an experienced backup PG, and a shooter. There are now just two spots left. Filling that third priority absolutely closes the door on getting one of the other two.
If a good PG will want to commit, the staff can't say no to that. If there is even a decent chance that they'll fill that priority #2, then taking priority #3 now or later is a big risk to being able to satisfy the most obvious and pressing need.
I would hope that the staff bites the bullet and welcomes an Illini back into the fold. However, I recognize that while it is an emotional no-brainer with plenty of upside, there are practical downsides to it as well.