NBA Draft: Grading every first-round pick after rookie year
125. . C. Atlanta Hawks. Onyeka Okongwu. 6. player
NBA Draft: Grading every first-round pick after rookie year: 6. Onyeka Okongwu
Stats:
- 4.6 points
- 3.3 rebounds
- 0.7 blocks
Onyeka Okongwu was drafted as a rebounder, rim protector, and lob threat. The only problem with that is the Atlanta Hawks signed a player who does the exact same thing in Clint Capela. So while the former Houston Rocket big man was running up and down the floor, sending shots into the third row and grabbing every rebound possible, Okongwu was spending his time on the bench rooting him on. It may have made him a favorite amongst his teammates but it did nothing for his development.
Okongwu played only 12 minutes a game and as you would expect, his numbers suffered as a result. He put together averages of 4.6 points and 3.3 rebounds. His field goal percentage was terrific standing at 64.4 and for a man his size, shooting 63.2 percent from the free-throw line is encouraging.
Regardless of his weak season, his per 36 numbers might be a sign of things to come if he were to get more playing time. He tallied 13.7 points and 9.8 total rebounds. Still, there’s a reason why Okongwu barely sees any time on the court, the first-year player simply wasn’t ready for the big time yet. One day, he just might be, but for now, he needs a ton of work.
Grade: D-