When the Charlotte Hornets cut Josh Okogie loose, they didn’t just potentially change his zip code; they reset the rumor mill for multiple NBA contenders. Meanwhile, as rumors swirl around front-office moves and after key perimeter losses, the Lakers find themselves at a pivotal crossroads: do they double down on defensive upside, or gamble on flashier alternatives? With Okogie in free agency and the Lakers on the hunt for a tenacious defender, all eyes turn to just how their plan will come together, especially with whispers of a Plan B lurking in the background, waiting to pounce.There’s no denying that Josh Okogie could certainly be instrumental for the Lakers. Let’s not forget that with some key pieces like Dorian Finney-Smith no longer in the mix, their need for a solid, versatile wing defender has only grown more urgent. That’s where Okogie enters the frame. His game may not sparkle with flashy scoring highlights, but his defensive resume speaks volumes. Year after year, he’s managed to disrupt opposing offenses and guard multiple positions without fanfare. And for a team like LA that’s already top-heavy on offense, that kind of presence matters. But as with all free agency sagas, there’s more to the story.
In a recent video by Lakers Nation, Trevor Lane laid out the possibilities the Lakers might be considering if Okogie isn’t their final move. “If Bradley Beal, who is not particularly a great defensive player, he may not be as bad as his reputation. But a much better, I mean, not even the same league, better offensive player than Josh Okogie. If somebody like Beal would sign with the Lakers, once he gets bought out, I’m absolutely taking him,” Lane said.
