Onyeka Okongwu enters his seventh NBA season with the Atlanta Hawks, his evolving perimeter game and long-term contract status forming the central story of his preseason. The Hawks are 3-1 in exhibition play, most recently beating the Oklahoma City Thunder 113-110 on October 12, as they build toward their next preseason fixture against the Dallas Mavericks on October 16.
Okongwu is coming off a career-best shooting year. He hit 37.6 percent from three-point range on 5.2 attempts per game last season. That volume is key. By consistently taking those shots, he pulls opposing centers away from the paint. This creates driving lanes for teammates like Jalen Johnson.
His shooting makes him an ideal fit in head coach Quin Snyder's five-out offensive system. It gives Atlanta flexibility to use their center in various actions, from screening and rolling to simply spacing the floor. The challenge now is making that shooting a dependable, repeatable part of the offense. Another productive season from deep would signal his development is real and not a fluke opponents can scheme away.
His evaluation doesn't stop at three-pointers. The Hawks still need their starting center to defend the rim, rebound, and handle physical frontcourts. Okongwu's mobility is a real asset in Snyder's defensive schemes, especially when defending ball screens. Pairing that versatility with more consistent interior play is the next box to check.
Those responsibilities carry extra weight because of his contract. Okongwu is eligible for a contract extension worth up to three years and $76.6 million, with a deadline of October 19 to reach a deal. An extension would be a clear investment in him as part of the young core. Not getting one done by the deadline would raise questions, especially after the team's reported offseason interest in centers like Isaiah Hartenstein and Jarrett Allen.
Missing the deadline doesn't mean an immediate departure, however. He still has two years left on his current deal. Negotiations can stall over money or timing. His performance this season will be a huge part of any future decision, whether a mid-season trade or a new deal next summer.
For Okongwu, this is a chance to make his importance undeniable. His shooting unlocks the offense. Sustaining that while delivering more inside would strongly argue that Atlanta's long-term answer at center is already on the roster. The Hawks' preseason form, including wins over the Indiana Pacers and San Antonio Spurs after an opening loss to Memphis, shows a team finding its rhythm.
Jock Landale's arrival last season, after a dramatic trade deadline reroute that saw him drive from Memphis to Atlanta, added depth. But this season is about Okongwu establishing himself as the definitive starter. His growth from a traditional big into a floor-spacing center could be the key that raises Atlanta's offensive ceiling and finally settles their long-running search at the position.
