Lakers inquire about Okoro! Willing to use an expiring contract plus Knect as trade assets to boost defensive efficiency

On January 13th Beijing time, insider Sidery reported that the Lakers have contacted the Bulls regarding Okoro, with initial discussions underway between both teams.

Currently 24 years old, Okoro was the 5th overall pick in the 2020 draft and was traded from the Cavaliers to the Bulls as part of the deal to get Lonzo Ball. After joining, he established himself as a starter and has participated in all the Bulls’ games.

This season, Okoro has played 30 games, averaging 8.6 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game, shooting 47.5% from the field, 33.7% from three, and 76.7% from the free-throw line. Knect has appeared in 31 games, averaging 5.2 points and 1.7 rebounds, with shooting percentages of 44.3% from the field, 32.1% from beyond the arc, and 68.8% from the charity stripe.

Sidery stated that Okoro’s salary this season is $11 million, rising to $11.81 million next season. The Lakers can match salaries by combining an expiring contract with Knect to facilitate this potential trade.

Previous reports indicated the Lakers were also interested in Warriors’ Kuminga. However, compared to Kuminga, trading for Okoro is less complicated and requires fewer assets. The Lakers urgently need a defensive wing to improve their defensive performance. Currently, their defensive rating is 117.5, ranking 22nd in the league.

So far this season, the Bulls hold an 18-20 record, ranking 10th in the Eastern Conference; the Lakers have a 23-13 record, placing 5th in the Western Conference.