
The Los Angeles Lakers continue to evaluate options to bolster their frontcourt, and it appears that one name previously floated in trade discussions was the Atlanta Hawks big man Onyeka Okongwu.
In a recent appearance on the Straight Fire with Jason McIntyre podcast, ESPN’s Dave McMenamin revealed that the Lakers had inquired about Okongwu before the 2024–25 trade deadline.
“I do know that the Lakers made a call to the Hawks around the trade deadline about Okongwu,” McMenamin said (via Lakers Nation’s Ron Gutterman). “I think lob threat, athleticism, absolutely. In terms of being a perfect fit, maybe not. They might not get a perfect fit though. Clint Capela of ’17/18 probably was a perfect fit, but we’re in ’25/26 now. So that is kind of the spot they’re gonna be in.”
McMenamin also noted that Lakers president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka may have asked star guard Luka Doncic about Okongwu as part of his research into potential fits before the team pivoted to pursue Mark Williams.
That deal with Charlotte was later voided due to medical concerns, once again leaving the Lakers in search of a reliable frontcourt presence.
While Okongwu may not have been viewed as a perfect solution, his athleticism, rim-running ability, and defensive upside appealed to the Lakers’ front office, particularly as they look to find a younger, more mobile complement to Anthony Davis.
Whether Los Angeles revisits talks with Atlanta this offseason remains to be seen, but the franchise is expected to be active in the center market, via trade or free agency, in the coming months.
Onyeka Okongwu is just one center the Lakers may look to when addressing their big man depth this summer. Details: https://t.co/jeWRP7LS7Y
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) May 24, 2025