Latest news with #Okongwu
Yahoo
19 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Realistic Trade Idea Sends Athletic Center To The Warriors
Realistic Trade Idea Sends Athletic Center To The Warriors originally appeared on Fadeaway World. The Golden State Warriors are expected to be one of the most aggressive teams heading into the offseason. Although their postseason run came to a disappointing end, the team hasn't wavered in its approach towards competing for a title. Advertisement What has been noted, however, is that their traditional outlook towards playing fast and fluid with a "small-ball" lineup may not be the direction to head in. By virtue of slower defensive switches and reduced efficiency from beyond the arc, the Dubs may look at pivoting. This, in itself, has given rise to the need for a big man. Golden State's pursuit of a solid center has seen them linked to several players in the trade market as well as free agency. From reliable veterans like Brook Lopez to potential trade acquisitions like Kristaps Porzingis, the Warriors have explored several alternatives. The team currently features two promising young big men in Trayce Jackson-Davis and Quentin Post. Although both are interesting prospects, it appears more likely that they are willing to part ways with Jackson-Davis if it facilitates the arrival of a talented center. With this outlook in mind, we present a potential trade package that helps the Dubs land a talented and athletic big man in Onyeka Okongwu from the Atlanta Hawks. Advertisement Proposed Trade Details Golden State Warriors Receive: Onyeka Okongwu Atlanta Hawks Receive: Moses Moody, Trayce Jackson-Davis, 2026 first-round pick The Warriors Add Depth To Their Frontcourt Rotation Onyeka Okongwu could prove to be a solid addition to this Warriors team. As it stands, the Dubs have a stretch 5 with Post taking up the spot. But there will always be a place for a versatile athletic big man who can run the floor and act as a lob threat as well. Okongwu boasts tremendous athletic ability at his size. Although marginally undersized for a center, the 24-year-old has shown a lot of upside as a presence under the rim alongside a pick-and-roll point guard like Trae Young. Advertisement The Hawks' big man notched an average of 13.4 points and 8.9 rebounds per game on an efficient 56.7% shooting from the field. While he is capable of stretching the floor to some extent, he only took 2.0 shots per game from beyond the arc, hence skewing the numbers. Okongwu displays a lot of potential on both sides of the floor. Although his average of 0.9 blocks per game doesn't provide much to be inspired by, he has showcased a lot of effort while acting as a rim protector. The ideal use for the 24-year-old may be as a replacement for Kevon Looney, who may be on the way out of the Warriors, as they pivot to develop their younger frontcourt. Coming off the bench may lead to more production out of Okongwu, who could be a menace against opposing second units. The Hawks Receive Solid Reinforcements This trade proposal would have some benefits for the Hawks as well. Atlanta is a team that is currently languishing in mediocrity. Led by an All-Star guard in Trae Young, the Hawks are routinely underachieving, despite their talented roster. Advertisement While their shortcomings could be attributed to many things, they may be able to solve some of their issues by acquiring Moses Moody and Trayce Jackson-Davis in this trade. Moody's arrival may be considered a huge move for the Hawks. On a team that features the MIP Dyson Daniels, Moody would find himself competing for a starting spot with a very gifted defensive player. The 22-year-old has showcased a lot of talent as a two-way player. His averages of 9.8 points and 2.6 rebounds per game aren't a great indicator of his potential. Having seen a steady and gradual improvement in performance with the Warriors, Moody may be prepared to make a big move to earn more minutes, as the likelihood of a return to the Dubs seems low. At only $11.5 million, Moody is a steal, and with three more years on his contract, the Hawks could see him develop into a very reliable rotation player. His hard-nosed effort and hustle will undoubtedly be of value to a team looking to make a comeback in the East. Advertisement Similarly, the scope for Jackson-Davis is also intriguing. With Okongwu heading to Golden State and Clint Capela potentially leaving as an unrestricted free agent, the Warriors' big man may find himself in a position to earn very significant minutes in Atlanta. The 25-year-old is a very similar player to Okongwu. As an athletic big man with upside, he would pair very well with the likes of Young. His averages of 6.6 points and 5.0 rebounds per game aren't great indicators of his ability, as he only played an average of 15.6 minutes per game last season. A young center would fit Atlanta's timeline with their star guard as well. While he won't transform the team into title contenders, he would help stabilize their frontcourt rotation. In addition to this, the Hawks will also receive a key draft pick for next season. Considering the success they have had with Zaccharie Risacher, Atlanta could look to add more valuable depth using this pick. Trade Proposal Facilitating Future Developments The trade isn't a blockbuster move by any means. Regardless, it has massive implications for the roster moving forward. Advertisement A trade like this would see the Warriors shift their attention to developing their wing depth. Their interest in De'Anthony Melton could potentially yield great results. Additionally, factoring in Jonathan Kuminga's departure, the Dubs would have the cap space to attempt to sign a superstar as well. Meanwhile, the Hawks become a marginally more competitive team. While their priorities will involve improving their roster depth, the process will be set in motion by following through with this trade. Related: Bold Trade Proposal Pairs Giannis Antetokounmpo With Stephen Curry; Warriors Start New Dynasty This story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jun 5, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Lakers Linked With Hawks' Big Man Onyeka Okongwu: "Lob Threat, Athleticism..."
The Los Angeles Lakers saw their season come to an end after a swift first-round exit, courtesy of the Minnesota Timberwolves. But the loss may have been the key to triggering new growth, as it helped the team outline the necessary moves they needed to make in the offseason. The team's offseason plan was made abundantly clear during the team's last press conference of the season. Lakers GM Rob Pelinka highlighted their need for a big man, specifically an athletic big man who could be a defensive threat or a floor-spacing big. Advertisement While the player profile covers a vast spectrum, it is quite evident that the Lakers are looking for a player who can run the floor with their star, Luka Doncic. With this in mind, ESPN's Dave McMenamin appeared on "Straight Fire with Jason McIntyre" to reveal the kind of players who the Purple and Gold had shown an interest in. While referring to the team's links to Charlotte Hornets big man Mark Williams, McMenamin said: "I do know the Lakers made a call to the Hawks around the trade deadline about Okongwu. I think lob threat, athleticism, absolutely. In terms of being a perfect fit, maybe not. They might not get a perfect fit, though." Atlanta Hawks center Onyeka Okongwu would make for an interesting pick-up if the Lakers choose to pursue it. The Hawks' center is only 24 years old and played in a total of 74 games last season. This kind of durability is appreciated for a Lakers team that had grown accustomed to having injury-prone big men grace the roster. Advertisement Okongwu notched a solid average of 13.4 points, 8.9 rebounds on 56.7% shooting from the field. Although he doesn't boast as much defensive upside as Williams, he is an incredibly athletic center with a lot of potential to pair well with a playmaker in the pick-and-roll. The USC product has been on the receiving end of some great lobs by Hawks guard Trae Young. Given how effective Young is at facilitating easy baskets for rim-running bigs, it is quite evident that Doncic may be able to bring the most out of him as well. Being able to pair well with the Slovenian is a big parameter for the Lakers. This aspect has seen the team linked to several players, both in free agency as well as the trade market. From trade targets like Daniel Gafford and Nic Claxton to upcoming free agents like Clint Capela and Brook Lopez, the Purple and Gold have kept their radar open. Advertisement McMenamin also made an important addition to his statement by mentioning that the Lakers will have the taxpayer mid-level exception available to them. While it will be difficult for the Lakers to acquire a legitimate center under normal circumstances, there have been trade proposals that facilitate Capela joining them using it. Meanwhile, the Purple and Gold have also been included as part of some blockbuster deals involving some superstars. However, these ideas may not align with the team's offseason plans. Related: NBA Rumors: 4 Veterans The Lakers Could Acquire This Offseason
Time of India
27-04-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors might bag 6-foot-10 Atlanta Hawks center to boost title hopes with Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler
Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler (Image Source - Getty Images) The Golden State Warriors are exploring ways to strengthen their roster to maximize Stephen Curry's remaining prime years. One potential move involves trading Moses Moody and Trayce Jackson-Davis to the Atlanta Hawks for center Onyeka Okongwu , a $62 million big man who could address the team's defensive and rebounding needs. Golden State Warriors' Need for a Dominant Big Man Exposed The Golden State Warriors ' first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets has highlighted their lack of a true defensive anchor. Rockets' All-Star center Alperen Şengün dominated Game 2 with 17 points and 16 rebounds, exposing Golden State's struggles against physical, athletic big men. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Trade Bitcoin & Ethereum – No Wallet Needed! IC Markets Start Now Undo While the Warriors have relied on Draymond Green and Kevon Looney for interior defense, neither possesses the size and athleticism to consistently match up against elite centers like Şengün. This weakness could push the front office to seek an upgrade this offseason. Why Onyeka Okongwu Fits the Golden State Warriors' Needs Onyeka Okongwu, 24, has emerged as one of the league's most promising young centers. This season, he averaged: - 13.4 points - 8.9 rebounds - 2.3 assists - 0.9 steals - 0.9 blocks - 56.7% field goal shooting His ability to protect the rim, switch defensively, and finish lobs makes him an ideal fit alongside Curry. As ClutchPoints' Enzo Flojo noted: "Okongwu is good. He is too good to be a backup—but not good enough to elevate Atlanta past its current ceiling." (H/t: Sporting News) With Clint Capela still in the Hawks' rotation, Okongwu's role remains inconsistent, making him a potential trade candidate. Proposed Trade Package To acquire Okongwu, the Golden State Warriors may need to part with: - Moses Moody (2021 No. 14 pick) - Trayce Jackson-Davis (2023 No. 57 pick) - Future draft compensation How the trade impacts the Warriors and the Hawks Onyeka Okongwu (Image via NBA) Warriors Gain Hawks Gain Elite rim protector Young wing in Moody Pick-and-roll threat for Curry Developmental big in Jackson-Davis Rebounding upgrade Future draft assets While losing Moody would hurt Golden State's wing depth, Okongwu's defensive presence could be the missing piece in their championship puzzle. Why the Hawks Might Consider the Deal The Atlanta Hawks is reportedly hesitant to fully commit to a youth movement, and Onyeka Okongwu's value may never be higher. Trading him now could allow the Hawks to: - Acquire a reliable 3-and-D wing in Moody - Add a young big in Jackson-Davis - Stockpile draft picks for a future superstar trade Final Verdict: A Win-Win Move? For the Warriors, Onyeka Okongwu represents an immediate upgrade in size and athleticism, helping them contend in a stacked Western Conference. For the Hawks, this deal could provide flexibility while adding young talent. Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angelers could sign $3,303,771 Philadelphia 76ers star to bolster Championship title hopes with LeBron James and Luka Doncic If Golden State is serious about extending Curry's championship window, this trade could be a game-changer.
Fox News
19-04-2025
- Sport
- Fox News
Heat beat Hawks in OT, become first No. 10 seed to advance to NBA playoffs
Tyler Herro scored 30 points while sinking two 3-pointers in overtime and the Miami Heat regrouped after losing an early lead to beat the Atlanta Hawks 123-114 on Friday night and make NBA Play-In Tournament history. Miami will play at Cleveland on Sunday night in the opening game of the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. Davion Mitchell scored only seven points in regulation before adding three 3-pointers in overtime for Miami. The Heat became the first No. 10 seed in either conference to make the playoffs since the current play-in format was launched in the 2020-21 season. Miami also became the first play-in team to advance with two road wins. Trae Young's lay-in with 1.3 seconds remaining in regulation tied the game at 106, forcing overtime. Young scored 29 points with 11 assists. Onyeka Okongwu had 28 points with 12 rebounds. Miami started strong, scoring the game's first 10 points and leading by 17 points at 45-28 in the second period. The Hawks tied the game at 88 on a layup by Terance Mann. Young's 3-pointer gave Atlanta its first lead at 91-88 with 7:36 remaining. Atlanta led 93-92 before Okongwu hit a 3-pointer. Following a steal by Dyson Daniels, Okongwu's jam extended the lead to 98-92. Heat forward Nikola Jovic, who had been out since Feb. 23 with a broken right hand, was available but did not play. Guard Pelle Larsson (ankle) also was available for the first time since April 7. After setting season lows with four 3-pointers made and 21 attempted against Orlando in the first play-in game, coach Quin Snyder said his players "have got to be more willing to take contested 3s." The Hawks responded by attempting 21 3s in just the first half against Miami, while making five. For the game, Atlanta made 16-of-47 3s. Reporting by The Associated Press. Want great stories delivered right to your inbox? Create or log in to your FOX Sports account, and follow leagues, teams and players to receive a personalized newsletter daily!
Yahoo
19-04-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Herro scores 30 points to lead Heat past Hawks 123-114 in play-in and into NBA playoffs
ATLANTA (AP) — After making NBA Play-In Tournament history by winning two road games, the Miami Heat won't be afraid of facing No. 1 seed Cleveland in the playoffs. Tyler Herro scored 30 points while sinking two 3-pointers in overtime and the Heat regrouped after losing an early lead to beat the Atlanta Hawks 123-114 on Friday night. Miami will play at Cleveland on Sunday night in the opening game of the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. 'I know how badly our group wanted to get into this thing,' Miami coach Erik Spoelstra said. 'I could see it in their eyes and feel it in their heart.' Davion Mitchell scored only seven points in regulation before added three 3-pointers in overtime for Miami. The Heat became the first No. 10 seed in either conference to make the playoffs since the current play-in format was launched in the 2020-21 season. Miami also became the first play-in team to advance with two road wins. 'We did it the hard way. We're battle-tested,' said Miami's Haywood Highsmith, who had 12 points and 10 rebounds. 'We can go anywhere and beat anybody.' Asked about the challenge of facing Cleveland, Spoelstra said, 'I'm so grateful we're in the playoffs. We're the first team to do it, and why not, to take on two road games.' Added Highsmith: 'We fought to get into the playoffs. Now what we're in, we're not going to go out soft.' Trae Young's lay-in with 1.3 seconds remaining in regulation tied the game at 106, forcing the overtime. Young scored 29 points with 11 assists. Onyeka Okongwu had 28 points with 12 rebounds. 'Not making the playoffs is a failure to me,' Young said. Miami started strong, scoring the game's first 10 points and leading by 17 points at 45-28 in the second period. The Hawks tied the game for the first time at 88 on a layup by Terance Mann. Young's 3-pointer gave Atlanta its first lead at 91-88 with 7:36 remaining. Atlanta led 93-92 before Okongwu hit a 3-pointer. Following a steal by Dyson Daniels, Okongwu's jam extended the lead to 98-92. Heat forward Nikola Jovic, who had been out since Feb. 23 with a broken right hand, was available but did not play. Guard Pelle Larsen (ankle) also was available for the first time since April 7. After setting season lows with four 3-pointers made and 21 attempted against Orlando in the first play-in game, coach Quin Snyder said his players 'have got to be more willing to take contested 3s.' The Hawks responded by attempting 21 3s in just the first half against Miami, while making five. For the game, Atlanta made 16 of 47 3s. ___ AP NBA:
