NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers could be eyeing $61,980,000 Atlanta Hawks center in a blockbuster deal to bolster squad around LeBron James and Luka Doncic
Luka Doncic and LeBron James (Image via Joe Murphy/ Getty Images)
The
Los Angeles Lakers
face a critical offseason after a disappointing first-round playoff exit. A glaring weakness was exposed—their lack of a dominant center. Now, a surprising trade proposal suggests they could fix that problem by acquiring
Atlanta Hawks
big man Onyeka Okongwu.
Why the Los Angeles Lakers Need a True Center
The
Los Angeles Lakers
' struggles against the Minnesota Timberwolves highlighted their need for a reliable center. Rudy Gobert dominated in Game 5, putting up 27 points and 24 rebounds. Without a strong interior presence, Los Angeles was outmatched.
ESPN's Dave McMenamin
reported that Lakers GM Rob Pelinka previously tried to address this issue: "Rob Pelinka made calls to the Atlanta Hawks at this past February's trade deadline in hopes of acquiring big man, Onyeka Okongwu before ultimately deciding on a deal with the Charlotte Hornets for Mark Williams, before Williams failed a physical, which forced the trade to be rescinded."
With the offseason approaching, the Lakers may revisit a deal for Okongwu.
Proposed Trade Details
LeBron James, Luka Doncic and Makoto Kokushi. Image via: LM Otero/ AP | Los Angeles Lakers/ Instagram
Here's how the trade could work according to
Colby Faria of the Sporting News
:
Los Angeles Lakers Receive
Atlanta Hawks Receive
Onyeka Okongwu
Dalton Knecht
Gabe Vincent
2031 First-Round Pick (unprotected)
Why This Trade Makes Sense for the Los Angeles Lakers
- Onyeka Okongwu's Production: He averaged career highs of 13.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game in under 28 minutes.
- Contract Value: He's owed just $15 million per year for the next two seasons—a reasonable price for a starting-caliber center.
- Defensive Upgrade: His athleticism and rim protection would significantly improve the Lakers' interior defense.
Why the Atlanta Hawks Might Consider It
- Future Assets: A 2031 unprotected first-round pick could be valuable if the Lakers struggle in the future.
- Youth Movement: Knecht is a promising young player who fits a rebuilding timeline.
- Financial Flexibility: Moving Okongwu's salary could help the Hawks reshape their roster.
What's Next for the Los Angeles Lakers?
If this trade happens, the Los Angeles Lakers finally secure a long-term answer at center. Okongwu's energy, rebounding, and defensive versatility would complement
LeBron James
, allowing him to play his natural power forward position more often.
For the Hawks, this deal signals a shift toward future flexibility rather than immediate contention.
Also read:
NBA Trade Rumor: Golden State Warriors predicted to send $215,353,664 superstar to Boston Celtics in a blockbuster 3-way trade
This offseason could define the Lakers' direction. If Pelinka pulls off this move, it might be the game-changing addition they need to return to title contention.
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