The Los Angeles Lakers face a critical offseason after a disappointing first-round playoff exit. A glaring weakness was exposed—their lack of a dominant center. Now, a surprising trade proposal suggests they could fix that problem by acquiring Atlanta Hawks big man Onyeka Okongwu .
Why the Los Angeles Lakers Need a True Center
The Los Angeles Lakers' struggles against the Minnesota Timberwolves highlighted their need for a reliable center. Rudy Gobert dominated in Game 5, putting up 27 points and 24 rebounds. Without a strong interior presence, Los Angeles was outmatched.
ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported that Lakers GM Rob Pelinka previously tried to address this issue: "Rob Pelinka made calls to the Atlanta Hawks at this past February's trade deadline in hopes of acquiring big man, Onyeka Okongwu before ultimately deciding on a deal with the Charlotte Hornets for Mark Williams, before Williams failed a physical, which forced the trade to be rescinded."
With the offseason approaching, the Lakers may revisit a deal for Okongwu.
Proposed Trade Details
Here’s how the trade could work according to Colby Faria of the Sporting News:
Los Angeles Lakers Receive
Atlanta Hawks Receive
Why This Trade Makes Sense for the Los Angeles Lakers
- Onyeka Okongwu’s Production: He averaged career highs of 13.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game in under 28 minutes.
- Contract Value: He’s owed just $15 million per year for the next two seasons—a reasonable price for a starting-caliber center.
- Defensive Upgrade: His athleticism and rim protection would significantly improve the Lakers’ interior defense.
Why the Atlanta Hawks Might Consider It
- Future Assets: A 2031 unprotected first-round pick could be valuable if the Lakers struggle in the future.
- Youth Movement: Knecht is a promising young player who fits a rebuilding timeline.
- Financial Flexibility: Moving Okongwu’s salary could help the Hawks reshape their roster.
What’s Next for the Los Angeles Lakers?
If this trade happens, the Los Angeles Lakers finally secure a long-term answer at center. Okongwu’s energy, rebounding, and defensive versatility would complement LeBron James, allowing him to play his natural power forward position more often.
For the Hawks, this deal signals a shift toward future flexibility rather than immediate contention.
Also read: NBA Trade Rumor: Golden State Warriors predicted to send $215,353,664 superstar to Boston Celtics in a blockbuster 3-way trade
This offseason could define the Lakers’ direction. If Pelinka pulls off this move, it might be the game-changing addition they need to return to title contention.
Why the Los Angeles Lakers Need a True Center
The Los Angeles Lakers' struggles against the Minnesota Timberwolves highlighted their need for a reliable center. Rudy Gobert dominated in Game 5, putting up 27 points and 24 rebounds. Without a strong interior presence, Los Angeles was outmatched.
ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported that Lakers GM Rob Pelinka previously tried to address this issue: "Rob Pelinka made calls to the Atlanta Hawks at this past February's trade deadline in hopes of acquiring big man, Onyeka Okongwu before ultimately deciding on a deal with the Charlotte Hornets for Mark Williams, before Williams failed a physical, which forced the trade to be rescinded."
With the offseason approaching, the Lakers may revisit a deal for Okongwu.
Proposed Trade Details
Here’s how the trade could work according to Colby Faria of the Sporting News:
Los Angeles Lakers Receive
Atlanta Hawks Receive
Why This Trade Makes Sense for the Los Angeles Lakers
- Onyeka Okongwu’s Production: He averaged career highs of 13.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game in under 28 minutes.
- Contract Value: He’s owed just $15 million per year for the next two seasons—a reasonable price for a starting-caliber center.
- Defensive Upgrade: His athleticism and rim protection would significantly improve the Lakers’ interior defense.
Why the Atlanta Hawks Might Consider It
- Future Assets: A 2031 unprotected first-round pick could be valuable if the Lakers struggle in the future.
- Youth Movement: Knecht is a promising young player who fits a rebuilding timeline.
- Financial Flexibility: Moving Okongwu’s salary could help the Hawks reshape their roster.
What’s Next for the Los Angeles Lakers?
If this trade happens, the Los Angeles Lakers finally secure a long-term answer at center. Okongwu’s energy, rebounding, and defensive versatility would complement LeBron James, allowing him to play his natural power forward position more often.
For the Hawks, this deal signals a shift toward future flexibility rather than immediate contention.
Also read: NBA Trade Rumor: Golden State Warriors predicted to send $215,353,664 superstar to Boston Celtics in a blockbuster 3-way trade
This offseason could define the Lakers’ direction. If Pelinka pulls off this move, it might be the game-changing addition they need to return to title contention.
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