One identify that Pelinka reportedly made calls about was Atlanta Hawks younger huge man Onyeka Okongwu. The 24-year-old is within the first yr of a four-year, $62 million contract, and whereas he’s barely undersized on the place, brings athleticism and robust defensive instincts. Dave McMenamin of ESPN spoke about L.A.’s pursuit of Okongwu on “Straight Hearth” with Jason McIntyre when requested if he has heard any buzz surrounding the Lakers’ curiosity: “I’ve. Earlier than the Mark Williams commerce, and I can’t let you know all of the names on that checklist however I truly assume he was one of many names on the checklist that Rob Pelinka introduced to Luka as a result of I do know the Lakers made a call to the Hawks around the trade deadline about Okongwu. I feel lob risk, athleticism, completely. By way of being an ideal match, possibly not. They may not get an ideal match although. Clint Capela of ’17-’18 might need been an ideal match however we’re in ’25-’26 now. So that’s form of the spot they’re gonna be in. I’m of the opinion to not go all in on a Claxton or somebody who makes $20-30 million… They’re gonna have the taxpayer mid-level out there to them, so I’d attempt to go and get a man at that stage and if he doesn’t show to be the most effective match, be sure you’re holding on to certainly one of your picks after which you may attempt to pursue one thing come February.”
Supply: Lakers Nation
Supply: Lakers Nation
