The Los Angeles Lakers reportedly contacted the Atlanta Hawks about the possibility of trading for Onyeka Okongwu, who could remain a target for them heading into next season.
The Los Angeles Lakers were exposed in the playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves, falling in five games in the first round largely due to a lack of depth in their frontcourt.
3-pointers this season
Atlanta Hawks
NBA
At the trade deadline, they were linked to Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams and even reached a deal to acquire him. However, the trade was later rescinded, leaving the Lakers without a reliable starting center for their postseason run.
According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, Lakers GM Rob Pelinka also explored other options, including a potential deal for Atlanta Hawks center Onyeka Okongwu - name that could re-emerge as a target this offseason.
"I do know the Lakers made a call to the Hawks around the trade deadline about Okongwu," McMenamin said on the Straight Fire podcast.
"I think lob threat, athleticism, absolutely. In terms of being a perfect fit, maybe not. They might not get a perfect fit though," he said. "Clint Capela of ’17-’18 might have been a perfect fit but we’re in ’25-’26 now. So that is kind of the spot they’re gonna be in."
McMenamin added that it might make more sense for the Lakers to pursue a more affordable frontcourt option rather than going all-in on a pricier player who may be a better fit on paper.
"I am of the opinion to not go all in on a Claxton or someone who makes $20-30 million," he stated.
"They’re gonna have the taxpayer mid-level available to them, so I’d try to go and get a guy at that level and if he doesn’t prove to be the best fit, make sure you’re holding on to one of your picks and then you can try to pursue something come February," McMenamin added.
Okongwu signed a four-year extension with the Hawks in 2023 worth nearly $62 million, keeping him under contract through the 2027-28 season. He’s set to earn $15 million next year, a reasonable figure for a young, athletic big man with upside.
With a team-friendly contract like he has, it would make a lot of sense for the Lakers to try to acquire Okongwu.
He averaged a solid 13.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists, and could be a serious addition to their weaker frontcourt with his great athleticism, solid lob threat ability, and rim protection.
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