One identify that Pelinka reportedly made calls about was Atlanta Hawks younger huge man Onyeka Okongwu. The 24-year-old is within the first 12 months 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 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 feel lob menace, athleticism, completely. By way of being an ideal match, possibly not. They won’t get an ideal match although. Clint Capela of ’17-’18 may need been an ideal match however we’re in ’25-’26 now. So that’s type 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 accessible to them, so I’d attempt to go and get a man at that degree and if he doesn’t show to be one of the best match, be sure to’re holding on to one in all your picks after which you’ll be able to attempt to pursue one thing come February.”
Supply: Lakers Nation
Supply: Lakers Nation