One identify that Pelinka reportedly made calls about was Atlanta Hawks younger large 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 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 truly assume he was one of many names on the record 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 menace, athleticism, completely. When it comes to 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 accessible to them, so I’d attempt to go and get a man at that degree and if he doesn’t show to be the perfect match, be sure you’re holding on to considered one of your picks after which you may attempt to pursue one thing come February.” -via Lakers Nation / Might 23, 2025
