The Los Angeles Lakers could once again be in the market for frontcourt help this offseason, and a veteran center from the NBA Finals may emerge as a potential target.
According to NBA insider Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, several teams have expressed interest in New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson ahead of free agency. Fischer reported that the Bulls, Hornets, Lakers and Raptors are among the clubs known to be seeking upgrades at the center position.
Robinson is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer after completing the four-year, $60 million contract he signed with New York in 2022. The 28-year-old spent the 2025-26 season as part of a Knicks team that finished 53-29 and advanced to the NBA Finals.
While Robinson was not a full-time starter, he remained one of the league’s most effective rebounders and interior defenders. In 60 regular-season appearances, including 16 starts, he averaged 5.7 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.2 blocks in just 19.6 minutes per game while shooting 72.3% from the field.
His impact often extended beyond the box score. Robinson averaged 4.2 offensive rebounds per game, helping New York generate extra possessions and second-chance opportunities. His rim protection also gave the Knicks a different defensive look when Karl-Anthony Towns shifted away from the center position.
For the Lakers, the reported interest is understandable. Although Los Angeles won 53 games and captured the Pacific Division during the 2025-26 regular season, the team was swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference semifinals.
The Lakers received solid production from Deandre Ayton, who averaged 12.5 points and 8.0 rebounds while starting all 72 games he played. However, the roster lacks another proven defensive center behind him. Jaxson Hayes contributed 7.5 points and 4.1 rebounds in a reserve role, but Robinson would offer a different skill set centered on rebounding, shot-blocking and interior defense.
