As far as unrestricted free agent centers go, Mitchell Robinson was the top name expected to be available when it comes to the theoretical fit with the Los Angeles Lakers. Unfortunately for Rob Pelinka and company, it sure sounds like the New York Knicks have no intention of letting him go.
The Knicks made the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999. As they await the winner of the series between the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs, the latest report from Tim Bontemps is suggesting that New York is ready to pay up for a couple of role players who helped get them to basketball's biggest stage.
"For both Robinson and guard Landry Shamet ... the belief is that coming off New York's dominant run to the NBA Finals, both will be back. And both will likely be on two-year deals as the Knicks are likely going to go well into the second apron next season and the following anyway."
The Lakers had every reason to monitor Robinson closely. The Knicks center is a solid play finisher, energetic on the glass, and effective at protecting the paint. In short, Mitch is all of the things that Luka Doncic loves in a frontcourt partner. The latest rumor here should force a pivot in Los Angeles.
Mitchell Robinson's anticipated deal with Knicks calls for Lakers to look elsewhere
Injuries were always the biggest concern with pursuing Robinson. The Knicks center has struggled to stay healthy over the last few seasons before managing to appear in 60 games during the 2025-26 regular season and playing all but one of the team's contests during their playoff run.
Considering that Robert Williams III, the next best available unrestricted free agent center, is also a sizable injury risk, this was a situation of picking your poison. Either one would present those obstacles, and Robinson could be argued as the better fit of the two for the Lakers.
If what Bontemps is saying proves true, Los Angeles will not need to worry about picking between those two. They will need to reposition their approach altogether.
Jalen Duren and Walker Kessler are the best options in free agency overall, but both are restricted free agents. Isaiah Hartenstein is a great target who feels slightly more realistic, but the Thunder ultimately control his destiny with a team option. Even well-fitted NBA Draft fits are removing themselves from contention.
Replacing Deandre Ayton as the starting five in Los Angeles is paramount. The Lakers cannot talk themselves into running that rollercoaster back. However, the path to executing that change is projecting to be a difficult one.
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