One title that Pelinka reportedly made calls about was Atlanta Hawks younger massive 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 powerful 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 inform you all of the names on that record however I really assume he was one of many names on the record that Rob Pelinka offered to Luka as a result of I do know the Lakers made a call to the Hawks around the trade deadline about Okongwu. I believe lob menace, athleticism, completely. When it comes to being an ideal match, possibly not. They won’t 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 sort 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 degree and if he doesn’t show to be the very best match, be sure to’re holding on to considered one of your picks after which you may attempt to pursue one thing come February.”
Supply: Lakers Nation
Supply: Lakers Nation
