One title 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 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 truly 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 name to the Hawks across the commerce deadline about Okongwu. I feel lob menace, athleticism, completely. By way of being an ideal match, perhaps not. They may not 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 obtainable to them, so I’d attempt to go and get a man at that stage and if he doesn’t show to be the perfect match, be sure to’re holding on to one in every of your picks after which you’ll be able to attempt to pursue one thing come February.”
Supply: Lakers Nation
Supply: Lakers Nation
