Mitchell Robinson has become a name to watch for the Los Angeles Lakers after a strong playoff showing with the New York Knicks.
Robinson has not logged heavy minutes in the Finals, but his impact around the rim and on the boards has stood out.
That fits the mold of an affordable, defense-first big man the Lakers might target as they look to put the right pieces around Luka Doncic.
Mitchell Robinson on Lakers radar ahead of offseason
Jake Fischer, writing for The Stein Line, noted that the Lakers are one of several teams monitoring Robinson’s situation.
“Teams regularly relayed to me when I’ve asked around about Robinson’s status have pointed to the Bulls, Hornets, Lakers, and Raptors. Those are all clubs known to be looking for center upgrades.”
Robinson averaged 5.7 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.2 blocks, and 19.6 minutes per game during the regular season, hitting 72.3 percent of his shots.
In the playoffs, he has stayed in a limited but valuable role, averaging 5.2 points and 5.3 rebounds in 14.1 minutes per game while bringing energy off the bench behind Karl-Anthony Towns.
That context is important. Robinson has thrived as Towns’ backup, able to crash the glass, protect the rim, and avoid being exposed over longer stretches.
The Lakers need to be careful with Mitchell Robinson’s fit
On paper, the Lakers’ interest makes sense.
Robinson is a proven defender, one of the league’s top offensive rebounders, and his expiring $12.95 million salary was manageable for a player of his profile. Spotrac lists him as a free agent in 2026, so any move would likely require a new deal or a sign-and-trade.
He would give the Lakers a strong screener, lob threat, and rim protector, all areas of need since they restructured the roster around Doncic.
But there are concerns. Robinson lacks mobility, does not stretch the floor, struggles from the free-throw line, and has not shown the physical tools to be a full-time pick-and-roll partner for Doncic.
His injury record is another red flag for a team considering him as a long-term starter.
In a bench role, Robinson is excellent. If the Lakers see him as a 16-to-20-minute defensive specialist, it could work well. But if they are hoping he is the answer at center, they might be setting themselves up for disappointment.
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