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Lakers are set to sign the most controversial contract this season – 40.6% FG, 29.9% 3P – thought no one wanted him, but the Lakers are pursuing!

Posted on July 17, 2025 - 2:17 am by

In a surprising turn of events, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly pursuing Josh Okogie, a 26-year-old free agent recently waived by the Charlotte Hornets. The move has sparked heated discussions among fans and analysts, with many labeling it as one of the most controversial signings of the NBA season. Okogie, a defensive-minded wing with a career 40.6% field goal percentage and a 29.9% three-point shooting percentage, was not expected to draw significant interest after his contract was not guaranteed by the Hornets. Yet, the Lakers see potential in the former first-round pick to bolster their roster.

Okogie’s Journey in the NBA

Selected 20th overall in the 2018 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves, Josh Okogie has carved out a seven-year career across three teams: the Timberwolves, Phoenix Suns, and Charlotte Hornets. Known for his tenacious defense and versatility on the wing, Okogie has averaged 6.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game over 416 career games. His defensive prowess is highlighted by his ranking third in steals per 100 possessions among players with over 600 minutes last season, trailing only Dyson Daniels and Alex Caruso, according to social media buzz from @NBALakersReport.

However, Okogie’s offensive game has been a point of contention. His career shooting splits—40.6% from the field and a lackluster 29.9% from beyond the arc—have drawn criticism, with many questioning his fit on a Lakers team in need of consistent scoring and shooting to complement stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Why the Lakers Are Interested

Despite his offensive limitations, the Lakers appear to value Okogie’s defensive intangibles and hustle. Social media reactions from Lakers fans and analysts suggest a strong push for the signing. @playoffjake simply stated, “Josh Okogie. Lakers,” while @GenuinLakerFan described him as a “defensive-minded wing” who could be signed to a minimum deal. @NBALakersReport emphasized his elite defensive stats, and @PlugOneTwo urged the Lakers to “drop Shake Milton, sign Josh Okogie.”

The Lakers’ interest aligns with their reported goal of adding a versatile, defensively-focused wing to round out their roster for the 2025-26 season. Okogie’s ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt passing lanes could provide the grit and energy the team needs, especially in a competitive Western Conference.

Why the Signing Is Controversial

The potential signing has divided opinions due to Okogie’s offensive struggles. Critics argue that his below-average shooting percentages could clog the Lakers’ offense, which already faces spacing issues at times. With only a 29.9% career three-point shooting rate, Okogie is far from a floor-spacing threat, potentially limiting the team’s offensive versatility. Some fans, like @laykuhh, are optimistic, calling the move “so great,” but others remain skeptical about his ability to contribute meaningfully to a championship-contending team.

Moreover, Okogie’s $7.7 million salary for the 2025-26 season, which was not guaranteed by the Hornets, raises questions about the financial implications of the signing. While the Lakers are likely pursuing him for a minimum contract, as suggested by @GenuinLakerFan, the decision to invest in a player with such polarizing stats has fueled debates about the team’s roster-building strategy.

What’s Next for Okogie and the Lakers?

As the Lakers move forward with their pursuit of Okogie, the basketball world will be watching closely to see if this gamble pays off. His defensive skills and hustle could make him a valuable role player, but his offensive limitations will need to be mitigated by the team’s star power and system. If signed, Okogie will have a chance to prove his doubters wrong and cement his place on one of the NBA’s most storied franchises.

For now, the Lakers’ interest in Josh Okogie has ignited a firestorm of reactions, making this one of the most talked-about potential signings of the season. Whether it’s a masterstroke or a misstep, only time will tell.