As the Los Angeles Lakers look for the lob threat and rim protector they need, the most obvious player for them to target is Mitchell Robinson. The New York Knicks center is entering the final season of his current contract and plays for a team that otherwise lacks ideal financial flexibility.
With this in mind, it would behoove Los Angeles to keep a close eye on Robinson and monitor his availability as it surveys the landscape of available centers.
Robinson, 27, has battled injuries over the past two seasons and thus entered the realm of players who could be playing for a different team in 2026-27 than they currently are. He's finally going through an offseason without the need for surgery or recovery, however, and could bounce back in 2025-26.
Even if that transpires, the Knicks are tied up in big-money contracts and could be unable to afford re-signing Robinson in 2026.
That possibility will likely lead New York to exploring the trade market for Robinson and evaluating potential returns. Los Angeles has the salaries to match Robinson's $12,954,546 expiring salary, as well as the opportunity for consistent playing time.
There's no guaranteeing that the Knicks would be open to what the Lakers might offer, but adding Robinson would go a long way toward solidifying JJ Redick's rotation.
Lakers can realistically trade for Knicks center Mitchell Robinson
Robinson is a giant of an individual with shocking athleticism and elite production as a defender and offensive rebounder. Standing at 7'0" and 240 pounds with a 7'4" wingspan, he's physically imposing standing still and downright terrifying in how quickly he can leap into the air or close the distance to the perimeter.
Capable of blocking jump shots, layups, dunks, and floaters, Robinson would be an excellent interior deterrent for a Lakers team in need.
Robinson is equally as prolific at the specific nature of his offensive game. He's one of the best in the NBA at creating second chances and is a high-level lob target due to his reach and athleticism, thus making him a dream partner for Luka Doncic.
With Robinson in the rotation, the Lakers could realistically expect to dominate the offensive glass, run highly efficient pick and rolls, and keep opponents out of the paint defensively.
Robinson's value translates well to the box score. He boasts career averages of 7.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.7 offensive boards, 1.8 blocks, and 0.9 steals in 24.1 minutes per game, shooting 70.0 percent from the field and 52.2 percent at the free-throw line.
Robinson's career averages translate to explosive marks of 11.7 points, 11.7 rebounds, 5.5 offensive boards, 2.7 blocks, and 1.4 steals per 36 minutes.
With Robinson and Deandre Ayton at center, the Lakers would instantly turn a position of uncertainty into a strength. Ayton has intriguing skill and a trip to the NBA Finals under his belt, while Robinson can change the pace of a game with his energy and two-way value.
It's unclear what the Knicks would be looking for in a trade for Robinson, but if they decide that they'd rather get value for him before he potentially walks in 2026, the Lakers should prepare a trade offer.