The Los Angeles Lakers’ ongoing search for improved perimeter defense took another hit this offseason, as Rob Pelinka allowed a perfect-fit defender to slip away to a Western Conference rival.
Josh Okogie, widely recognized as one of the NBA’s top on-ball defenders, has inked a one-year, $3.1 million deal with the Houston Rockets, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Given the Lakers’ defensive needs and the affordability of the deal, it’s a move many believe Los Angeles could — and arguably should — have made.
Okogie Was the Perfect Fit the Lakers Didn’t Take
At 26, Okogie embodies the exact type of role player the Lakers needed: “He defends multiple positions, competes every possession, and does not need the ball in his hands to impact the game.” His skill set aligns perfectly with today’s positionless basketball, especially on the defensive end, which is critical for a team with championship aspirations like Los Angeles.
Relying Solely on Smart Is a Gamble
The Lakers did bring in Marcus Smart for defensive help, but putting all their faith in him is risky. “Relying on Smart alone, given his recent injury history, is pretty risky.” Okogie, while not a big-name acquisition, would have offered dependable effort, toughness, and positional defense at a bargain.
Last season, Okogie saw limited minutes while bouncing between the Phoenix Suns and Charlotte Hornets, but when on the floor, he made life difficult for opposing guards. His hustle on transition defense and ability to crash the offensive glass stood out.
“He is the type of player you want in a playoff series, someone who does not blink when matched up with elite scorers.”
Houston Snags Another Target from L.A.
What stings more for Lakers fans is that Okogie is now part of a rising Rockets squad that continues to stockpile elite defenders. “Let’s not forget that already took away Dorian Finney-Smith from Los Angeles.” The Rockets are getting grittier, and Los Angeles is watching it unfold.
In hindsight, it feels like a clear miss. The Lakers had a chance to address a weakness quietly and cost-effectively but passed. Houston didn’t.
“What is done is done, but let’s just hope this does not come back to bite them come playoff time.”
