Standing at 6’9", Onyeka Okongwu has been criticized for his height since the night of the 2020 NBA Draft, but his improvements have been undeniable since that summer night. The Los Angeles native has arguably been the most polarizing Atlanta Hawk after the Trae Young trade last season.
Now, the 25-year-old is in the third season of his $62 million, four-year rookie-scale extension, so it’s time to find the right price for his veteran extension.
Okongwu has proven to be tailor made for the Hawks
He has changed his game dramatically since his college days to better fit the Hawks' style of play. The Hawks lead the league in three-pointers made with 184.
Okongwu is shooting over four of them per game, translating to a respectable 35%. It’s been rapid growth ever since he made a promise during his exit interview in 2022.
‘The next time you see me, I will have a jumpshot.” he told the media. Fast forward to present day, he’s one of the team’s most reliable outside shooters. His offense has improved from the inside to outside along with his defense.
Getting in better shape has led to improved drop coverage and being physical with taller big men in the post. At 25, he is still developing into his final form and on track to become an athletic center who can also spread the floor.
This archetype is perfect for the Hawks, and it’s a major reason why they’re leading the league in assists for the second consecutive season (31.7). Given Okongwu's trajectory, he should receive a raise, and here’s why.
How much will Okongwu be worth age 25 and beyond?
Some Hawks fans will want to package their starting center for an established seven-footer, but there’s no need now that Henri Veesaar is on the roster. Although he’s a second-round pick, Veesaar was given a standard four-year, $9 million contract.
Although his presence won’t be felt until next season, Veesaar is the ideal backup for Okongwu, given his height and similar playstyle. The 22-year-old Estonian is a trustworthy contingency plan if Jock Landale leaves Atlanta in 2027 free agency.
This gives Atlanta three centers, including rookie Zuby Ejiofor. Now that Okongwu has two reliable backups, the front office can offer him a deal without trepidation.
They don’t have to sign another seven-footer since they have Veesaar, and Ejiofor has also impressed during his minutes. He’s shooting threes and crashing the glass just like the other two centers.
With two reliable backups on the bench, President of Basketball Operations Onsi Saleh should offer Okongwu a three-year, $75 million extension. They will have the money to do so next summer, and this is the most they can offer him given the 140% veteran extension in the recent CBA.
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