The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly in the market for a starting-caliber defensive center, with Jaxson Hayes as the only true center currently under contract. Given their limited salary cap space, a trade is likely the most feasible route. One potential target is Mitchell Robinson of the New York Knicks. A proposed deal would see the Lakers sending Jarred Vanderbilt, a 2025 second-round draft pick, and a future first-round pick swap.

Robinson, standing at 7 feet tall, brings defensive prowess and rebounding ability to the Lakers, having averaged 7.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks over his career. His ability to protect the rim would be invaluable for the Lakers, particularly for playmakers like LeBron James and Luka Dončić. However, his injury history, having played only 48 games in the last two seasons, raises concerns about his reliability for the playoffs.