The Los Angeles Lakers may not be finished reshaping their roster. Despite already adding Deandre Ayton and re-signing Jaxson Hayes, the franchise is now being linked to New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson, a defensive powerhouse with a 7’4 wingspan. The move could provide Luka Doncic with another elite lob threat while also easing the pressure on Ayton.
Los Angeles Lakers’ New Direction Around Luka Doncic
After acquiring Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks at the trade deadline, the Los Angeles Lakers shifted their focus toward building a contender around the 26-year-old superstar. Doncic has made it clear he does not want to wait for success.
“Doncic being just 26 gives the Lakers a far longer timeline to build a championship-contending team, but that doesn’t mean they can slow down and take their time. Doncic told Lakers president Rob Pelinka and coach JJ Redick in May that he’s not interested in taking the slow approach in building a contender,” CBS Sports’ Jasmyn Wimbish wrote. This offseason, Los Angeles made the center position a priority. The team re-signed Jaxson Hayes while also bringing in Ayton. However, Ayton’s reputation has been under heavy scrutiny.
ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins remarked: “The word around the league is not good about Deandre Ayton… right now he’s been labeled as a diva, as a cancer in the locker room… he has to change a lot about himself or he will find his career being shortened.”
Despite the concerns, the Lakers believe Ayton can thrive with the right support system. Adding Robinson could further solidify the frontcourt.
Mitchell Robinson: A Knicks Asset on the Market
Reports indicate that the Knicks are open to testing the market for Robinson, who is on an expiring $12,954,546 contract. His skillset aligns with what the Lakers are searching for: a defensive anchor and dominant rebounder who can play alongside Ayton and Hayes.
Lake Show Life’s Maxwell Ogden summed up Robinson’s value: “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.”
Why Robinson Could Be the Missing Piece
Robinson’s addition would benefit both Ayton and Doncic:
• Ayton would have less pressure to handle defensive responsibilities alone.
• Doncic would gain another explosive rim-running option, reminiscent of the lob threats he excelled with in Dallas.
Potential Benefits for the Los Angeles Lakers
Player Benefit from Robinson Trade
Luka Dončić Gains a consistent lob target and rim protector support
Deandre Ayton Reduced pressure, ability to focus more on offensive play
Jaxson Hayes Remains a rotational piece with additional flexibility
While the Los Angeles Lakers must navigate financial constraints carefully, Robinson’s manageable contract makes this move realistic. His defensive prowess and rebounding dominance could be the kind of upgrade that genuinely moves the needle for Los Angeles.
As Hunter Cookston originally reported, the Los Angeles Lakers are weighing the option of bolstering their roster with Robinson, signaling that their offseason might not be finished just yet.
