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on a deal with the Charlotte Hornets for Mark Williams, before Williams failed a physical, which forced the trade to be rescinded.”With the offseason approaching, the Lakers may revisit a deal for Okongwu.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

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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:

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 tradeThis 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.

Well, Wednesday’s game was postponed due to rain in Washington D.C., seemingly a common occurrence for Atlanta. This will likely give the Braves one extra game with Ronald Acuna though, which is far from a bad thing. Speaking of Ronald, let’s talk about his return. It could seemingly be as soon as Friday, although that is far from a guarantee. He went 1-4 with a ringing double and a walk (with two strikeouts), while playing 9 innings in right field on Wednesday. That was the last big hurdle for an individual game. For me, I say bring him up Friday. If he’s good to play then I’d rather it be at the major league level, since he looks far from rusty, at least at the plate. The Braves’ corner outfield spots are not producing much at all, so he’ll be a huge upgrade immediately and even if you need to give him a few off-days for the first week or two that’s fine. We’ll see what the organization actually decides to do, but we are days away from the return of the Braves’ best player.

Braves News

Our prospect team took a look at 8 stock up Braves prospects so far this season, as it has been an optimistic year on the farm.

Wednesday’s game was postponed due to rain (what’s new in the nation’s capital) and will be made up as part of a doubleheader on September 16th.

MLB News

Justin Verlander will miss at least his next two starts for the Giants, with a pectoral nerve issue.

Robert Hassell will make his MLB debut against Atlanta, as he comes up to replace an injured Dylan Crews for the Nationals.

Pirates’ Jared Jones will have season-ending elbow surgery after a strong rookie campaign in 2024. Infielder Emmanuel Valdez’ season is also over for Pittsburgh.

ATLANTA – Plans to establish a new LGBTQ+ community center in Atlanta are moving forward, with organizers now seeking in-person feedback from residents interested in helping shape the facility’s future.

PREVIOUS STORY: Proposed LGBTQ Center in Atlanta sparks community conversation

What we know:

The Atlanta-Fulton County Recreation Authority, which is overseeing the project, has launched a year-long feasibility study to determine the center’s purpose and design. So far, hundreds of people have participated by completing an online survey offering their input.

The proposed center would serve as a dedicated space for supporting and uplifting members of the LGBTQ+ community in the Atlanta area.

What’s next:

As part of the next phase, a public meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 3, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Truth Midtown. Attendees must RSVP in advance to participate in the session.