3 goals for Atlanta Hawks big man Onyeka Okongwu

3 goals for Atlanta Hawks big man Onyeka Okongwu No 2) Earn more minutes

There have been suggestions that Okongwu could replace Capela as the Hawks’ starting center. However, given that the Hawks extended Capela for two more years prior to last season starting, it is likely that Okongwu will be the backup big for at least another season or two.

However, this does not mean that he cannot start taking minutes with the way that the roster is structured. Given that he is hopefully going to be bringing a jump shot to his game this season, he may be able to step outside the paint and play with Capela without hurting the Hawks’ spacing.

The Hawks traded Danilo Gallinari in the Dejounte Murray trade there are a large number of bench minutes available at the power forward spot. Okongwu is still the backup at the pivot as well so if he can play both spots then the Hawks’ will benefit.

Imagine the defensive capability of a lineup with Capela, Okongwu, De’Andre Hunter, and Murray. There will be very few teams that would be able to score at a high percentage against them. It will take some coaching courage to make this happen but Okongwu could make it work.