The Los Angeles Lakers acknowledged their need for improved center play after struggling inside during their recent playoff loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Despite securing the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference, weaknesses in the center position hindered their postseason success. With LeBron James and Luka Dončić expected to remain key parts of the roster next season, the Lakers aim to strengthen their interior defense and offense by pursuing viable center options.
Trade Attempts for Mark Williams Fall Through, Lakers Explore Other Center Options
Before the trade deadline, Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka sought to acquire Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams. However, the deal was voided after Williams did not pass the Lakers’ physical examination, forcing Los Angeles to look elsewhere for a solution. The quest for a center compatible with Dončić and aligned with the Lakers’ timeline remains a top priority, as they need an athletic and reliable inside presence.
Interest in Hawks’ Onyeka Okongwu Emerges as a Potential Fit
According to reports by ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, the Lakers made inquiries about Atlanta Hawks center Onyeka Okongwu around the trade deadline. While Okongwu may not be the perfect fit, his combination of size, athleticism, and defensive ability makes him one of the more realistic upgrade candidates for Los Angeles. McMenamin noted,
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I do know the Lakers made a call to the Hawks around the trade deadline about [Onyeka] Okongwu, I think lob threat, athleticism, absolutely. In terms of being a perfect fit, maybe not. They might not get a perfect fit though.
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—Dave McMenamin, ESPN
Okongwu’s Attributes Align With Lakers’ Immediate and Long-Term Needs
Standing 6’10” and turning 25 this December, Okongwu combines youthful potential with the physical traits the Lakers need, particularly on defense. Offensively, he can serve as a lob target that complements Dončić’s playmaking style. Financially, Okongwu’s contract of approximately $15 million for the upcoming season fits within the Lakers’ restricted salary flexibility, making him an attractive trade candidate compared to other options.
Uncertainty Surrounds Why Previous Trade Talks With Hawks Failed
The specific reasons behind the failed Okongwu trade remain unclear. General manager Rob Pelinka reportedly proposed a package similar to the one offered for Mark Williams, which included players like Dalton Knecht and Cam Reddish, along with future draft considerations such as a 2031 first-round pick and a 2030 pick swap. Whether Hawks’ former GM Landry Fields deemed the offer insufficient or valued Okongwu highly is unknown. Fields was dismissed in April amid front office changes.
New Atlanta Front Office Could Alter Okongwu’s Trade Status
With assistant GM Onsi Saleh promoted to general manager, Atlanta enters a transitional phase that might influence their roster strategy. The search for a new President of Basketball Operations could further shape the franchise’s direction. This shifting leadership may open an opportunity for the Lakers to revisit trade discussions for Okongwu, potentially allowing Los Angeles to address their center deficiency.
Lakers Face Limited Trade Flexibility as Offseason Approaches
The Lakers have limited financial leeway and few valuable trade assets beyond Austin Reaves, whom they are reluctant to part with unless a substantial star is involved. Given these constraints, Okongwu represents a plausible acquisition considering his age, skill set, and contract. Strengthening the center position remains critical for Los Angeles to extend their postseason run and effectively complement their star duo.