Los Angeles Lakers Emerge as Trade Season Winners, But Work Remains Ahead. As the NBA trade deadline approaches this Thursday at 3 p.m. ET, the Los Angeles Lakers have already positioned themselves as the big winners of the trade season. However, their roster still has gaps to address, particularly in the frontcourt, as they prepare for both the present and the future.
The blockbuster acquisition of Luka Doncic has been hailed as a game-changer for the franchise. At just 25 years old, Dončić is a generational talent who not only elevates the Lakers’ current roster but also provides a clear path forward in the post-LeBron James era. While this move solidifies the team’s long-term future, it also highlights a pressing need: the absence of a dominant interior presence like Anthony Davis.
Fortunately, the Lakers are already exploring solutions. According to reports, the team is actively seeking a big man to bolster their frontcourt. Among the names on their radar is New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson, a dynamic rim protector and lob threat when healthy. Robinson’s availability, however, comes with concerns. He has struggled with injuries in recent years, playing more than 60 games only once in the past four seasons. Despite this, his potential impact on both ends of the floor makes him an intriguing option for the Lakers.
Lakers interested in Mitchell Robinson after Anthony Davis Trade
The Lakers have also shown interest in other centers, including Utah Jazz’s Walker Kessler and Indiana Pacers’ Myles Turner. Kessler, a rising star, has been on the Lakers’ radar since the offseason, while Turner’s ability to stretch the floor has long been coveted by the organization. However, acquiring either player would likely require significant assets, which the Lakers may be hesitant to part with given their focus on sustainable success rather than a short-term push.
The addition of Dončić has shifted the Lakers’ priorities. While the team isn’t abandoning the current season, the urgency to win immediately has diminished. Dončić’s arrival signals a commitment to building a contender that can thrive for years to come. This long-term vision allows the Lakers to approach the trade deadline strategically, targeting cost-effective deals rather than overpaying for immediate help.
Mitchell Robinson fits this approach perfectly. His de-escalating salary and high upside make him a potential bargain, especially if the Lakers can acquire him at a reduced cost due to his injury history. When healthy, Robinson is a force on both ends of the floor—a relentless rim-runner who excels in pick-and-roll situations and a formidable shot-blocker who can anchor the defense. His skill set complements the playmaking of LeBron James and Luka Dončić, while also providing much-needed defensive support for the backcourt.
While Robinson’s health remains a question mark, the Lakers are in a position to take a calculated risk. With Dončić now in the fold, the team can afford to be patient and prioritize value over urgency. Robinson’s potential to thrive in a reduced role, combined with his affordable contract, makes him an ideal target for a team looking to balance immediate needs with future flexibility.
The Lakers have already made waves this trade season with the acquisition of Dončić. If they can secure a player like Mitchell Robinson without overcommitting assets, they’ll further solidify their status as one of the league’s most forward-thinking franchises. As the deadline looms, all eyes will be on Los Angeles to see how they continue to shape their roster for both the present and the future.
