Celtics Eye Hawks Center Onyeka Okongwu as Offseason Trade Target

Key facts

• Onyeka Okongwu, 6'10" center, has played six NBA seasons, 381 games, averaging 10.7 points and 6.9 rebounds.
• This season Okongwu averaged 15.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.1 steals, 1.1 blocks in 31 minutes over 74 games.
• Okongwu shoots nearly 38% from three-point range, including above-the-break attempts.
• Bleacher Report's Dan Favale listed Okongwu as the top trade target for the Celtics this summer.
• Celtics currently have centers Neemias Queta and Nikola Vucevic, whose contract expires after this season.
• Boston could use the Anfernee Simons trade exception to absorb Okongwu's salary without losing Derrick White, Payton Pritchard, or Sam Hauser.
• In the first round of the 2026 playoffs, Okongwu is averaging 17 points, 8 rebounds, 1.5 assists in 33.5 minutes per game against the Knicks.

A Center Solution in Atlanta

The Boston Celtics have identified Atlanta Hawks big man Onyeka Okongwu as a prime offseason trade target, according to an analysis by Bleacher Report's Dan Favale. Favale placed Okongwu at the top of his list of three trade targets every team should pursue, citing the 6'10" center's reliable outside shooting and ability to play alongside incumbent center Neemias Queta. Okongwu, 25, is in the midst of a career season, averaging 15.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.1 blocks over 74 games. His three-point shooting has climbed to nearly 38 percent, including attempts from above the break, making him a viable floor-spacer. "Onyeka Okongwu both splits the difference and is the most ambitious option," Favale wrote. "His three-ball is reliable enough (including from above the break!) for him to play in tandem with Queta."

Why Boston Needs Another Big Man

The Celtics entered the season with questions at center after trading Kristaps Porzingis, but the position proved a strength rather than a weakness, with Queta delivering strong production. However, the team's depth at the position is uncertain beyond this season. Nikola Vucevic, acquired at the trade deadline, is on an expiring contract and will become a free agent this summer. Luka Garza remains on the roster but is considered a solid third-string option rather than a reliable backup. Acquiring a starting-caliber center via trade or free agency has become a priority. Okongwu would provide an immediate upgrade: he outperforms Queta in nearly every statistical category except rebounds and blocks, where he is comparable. His 31-minute-per-game workload this season suggests he could handle a starting role or provide elite depth off the bench.

Salary Cap Mechanics and Trade Flexibility

Favale noted that salary matching could become complicated depending on the Hawks' plans for the 2026-27 season. However, Boston possesses the financial flexibility to absorb Okongwu's contract without sacrificing key rotation players. The Celtics have room beneath the luxury tax to take on Okongwu's salary, and they could use the Anfernee Simons trade exception to facilitate the deal. the team could acquire Okongwu without trading Derrick White, Payton Pritchard, or even Sam Hauser. "Otherwise, the Celtics have the wiggle room beneath the tax to take on Okongwu's money without needing to give up Derrick White or Payton Pritchard," Favale wrote. "They could even get away with keeping Sam Hauser and taking Okongwu into the Anfernee Simons trade exception."

Playoff Performance Against the Knicks

Okongwu is currently showcasing his value in the first round of the 2026 NBA playoffs, where the Hawks face the New York Knicks. Through the first two games, he is averaging 17 points, eight rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 33.5 minutes per game. His ability to perform under playoff pressure adds to his appeal. The Celtics, who are also in the postseason, may be watching closely as they evaluate potential roster upgrades. Should Boston acquire Okongwu, his presence could push Sam Hauser to the bench, creating even greater depth. The move would allow the Celtics to shift other starters up a position, potentially pairing Okongwu with Queta in a twin-towers frontcourt.

What This Means for Neemias Queta

The addition of Okongwu would likely reduce minutes for Queta, who has been a revelation for Boston this season. Queta's strong play has exceeded expectations, but Okongwu's all-around game — particularly his three-point shooting and playmaking — offers a higher ceiling. Favale suggested that the playoffs will determine whether the Celtics want Okongwu to back up, play ahead of, or start alongside Queta. The versatility of playing both together is an attractive option. "Whether they want that big man to back up, play ahead of or start alongside Neemias Queta is a matter the playoffs will settle," Favale wrote.

Outlook: A Move to Chase Banner 19

The Celtics are currently pursuing another championship, but if they fall short this season, acquiring Okongwu could be a decisive step toward Banner 19. His age, production, and fit within Boston's system make him an ideal target. Okongwu has played six NBA seasons, appearing in 381 games and averaging 10.7 points and 6.9 rebounds for his career. His career-high numbers this season suggest he is still ascending. With the Hawks facing an uncertain future and the Celtics possessing trade assets and cap flexibility, a deal this summer appears feasible. The coming weeks of playoff action will provide further clarity on Boston's needs and Okongwu's value.

The bottom line

• Onyeka Okongwu is averaging career highs of 15.2 points and 7.6 rebounds while shooting nearly 38% from three.
• Bleacher Report's Dan Favale named Okongwu the top trade target for the Celtics this offseason.
• Boston can acquire Okongwu using the Anfernee Simons trade exception without losing key players like White, Pritchard, or Hauser.
• Okongwu's playoff performance against the Knicks (17 pts, 8 reb per game) underscores his readiness for high-stakes games.
• The Celtics' center depth is uncertain after this season due to Vucevic's expiring contract, making Okongwu a logical target.
• Pairing Okongwu with Queta could give Boston a versatile frontcourt that spaces the floor and defends multiple positions.