Lakers Urged to Pursue Mitchell Robinson as $60M Rim Protector to Fix Frontcourt Issues

The Los Angeles Lakers could face a transformative offseason as the franchise prepares for major roster decisions. With several contracts nearing expiration—including that of superstar LeBron James—the organization may soon have significant salary cap flexibility to reshape its roster.

According to salary cap expert Bobby Marks of ESPN, the Lakers could open around $51 million in cap space this summer if certain moves unfold. That projection also includes a $20.9 million cap hold for Austin Reaves, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent.

With the potential for that level of financial flexibility, analysts believe the Lakers could aggressively pursue upgrades—especially at center, a position that has remained unstable for several seasons.

One name gaining traction as a potential target is Mitchell Robinson of the New York Knicks.

Center Position Remains a Weak Spot for the Lakers

Despite multiple roster changes over the past few years, the Lakers have struggled to establish consistency at the center position.

Last offseason, the team signed former No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton in hopes that he would anchor the frontcourt. While Ayton has shown flashes of talent, his overall performance has been inconsistent, leading to increased scrutiny about his role moving forward.

Ayton currently holds an $8.1 million player option for the upcoming offseason. Even if he decides to remain with the team, reports suggest the Lakers could still explore other options at center.

Analysts around the league believe Los Angeles needs a more reliable defensive presence in the paint—particularly a player who excels at rebounding and rim protection.

Mitchell Robinson Emerging as a Potential Solution

Several names have been mentioned as possible targets for the Lakers, including Yves Missi of the New Orleans Pelicans.

However, some analysts believe Robinson may be an even better fit.

According to NBA writer Christopher Kline of FanSided, Robinson could bring exactly the type of interior presence the Lakers need.

Robinson is known for his elite athleticism, shot-blocking ability, and rebounding dominance. Standing seven feet tall with an impressive 7-foot-4 wingspan, he possesses the physical tools necessary to control the paint on both ends of the floor.

Kline described Robinson as a “premium vertical spacer”, highlighting his ability to sprint the floor in transition, roll hard to the rim after screens, and finish plays above the basket.

These qualities could complement the Lakers’ offense while strengthening their defense.

Contract Situation Could Make Robinson Available

Robinson is currently playing the final season of a four-year, $60 million contract with the Knicks. During the 2025–26 season, he is earning $12.9 million before becoming an unrestricted free agent this summer.

That contract situation could make him an attractive target for teams looking to add a high-level role player without committing to a massive long-term salary.

If the Lakers create significant cap space, they would have the financial flexibility to make Robinson a competitive offer in free agency.

Robinson’s Numbers Highlight His Defensive Impact

While Robinson may not post huge scoring totals, his value comes from defense, rebounding, and efficiency.

Through 47 games this season, Robinson is averaging:

• 5.1 points per game

• 8.5 rebounds per game

• 1.1 blocks per game

• 70.7% field goal percentage

Those numbers reflect his role as a rim-running center who focuses on high-percentage shots near the basket.

More importantly, Robinson remains one of the NBA’s most dominant offensive rebounders.

He currently averages 4.3 offensive rebounds per game, the fourth-highest mark in the league.

For a Lakers team that has struggled to generate second-chance scoring opportunities, that skill could be extremely valuable.

How Robinson Could Fit in the Lakers’ System

If Robinson joined the Lakers, his role would likely revolve around three key responsibilities:

1. Rim Protection

Robinson has built a reputation as a strong interior defender capable of altering shots and protecting the paint.

His shot-blocking ability would immediately improve a Lakers defense that has struggled at times against aggressive attacking offenses.

2. Elite Rebounding

Robinson’s ability to dominate the glass—especially on the offensive end—could create additional scoring opportunities for Los Angeles.

Second-chance points often make the difference in close games.

3. Pick-and-Roll Finishing

Robinson excels as a lob threat, making him a perfect partner for playmakers who can deliver accurate passes near the rim.

If the Lakers continue building around ball handlers like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, Robinson could thrive as a screen-setting, rim-running center.

Injury History Remains a Concern

While Robinson’s defensive impact is undeniable, one concern surrounding him is his injury history.

Throughout his career with the Knicks, injuries have occasionally limited his availability.

However, when healthy, Robinson has proven he can be one of the league’s most disruptive defensive centers.

Earlier in his career, he averaged close to 10 points and more than two blocks per game, demonstrating his potential to anchor a defense.

Lakers Could Have Financial Advantage

If LeBron James leaves in free agency, the Lakers could suddenly find themselves with one of the largest salary cap spaces in the NBA.

That financial flexibility would allow them to pursue players like Robinson without sacrificing other roster upgrades.

Even if the team ultimately decides to keep James, they could still explore creative ways to improve the roster through free agency or trades.

Could Mitchell Robinson Be the Answer?

The Lakers’ need for a dependable center has been a recurring issue for several seasons.

While Mitchell Robinson may not be the biggest star available, he could provide something Los Angeles desperately needs: consistent defense, rebounding, and physicality in the paint.

For a team aiming to remain competitive while potentially entering a new era, adding a player with Robinson’s skill set might be exactly the type of move that stabilizes the frontcourt.

If the Lakers decide to prioritize interior defense this offseason, Mitchell Robinson could quickly emerge as one of their top free-agent targets.