The Los Angeles Lakers appeared to consider Mitchell Robinson as a secondary option during their pursuit of a center.
Mitchell Robinson left the New York Knicks to sign a three-year, $47.4 million deal with the Boston Celtics, marking a significant move in the offseason. Throughout the summer, Robinson was frequently linked to the Lakers, suggesting that he may have been viewed as a Plan B for the team as they sought to upgrade their center position. The Lakers reportedly had their sights set on Walker Kessler, but the acquisition of Kessler turned heads in the league, indicating a strategic pivot in their roster construction.
The Lakers' interest in Robinson was evident, as they had reportedly considered drafting him in the 2018 NBA Draft. This historical interest highlights the Lakers' ongoing evaluation of Robinson's potential fit within their system. However, the team's decision to trade for Kessler suggests a preference for a player who aligns more closely with their current strategy, particularly in pairing with key players like Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, who thrive alongside mobile big men.
Robinson's lengthy injury history may have contributed to the Lakers' hesitance in fully committing to him as their primary target. He has missed significant time in past seasons due to foot and ankle surgeries, which raises concerns about his durability. In contrast, Kessler, despite his own injury concerns, offers a different skill set that the Lakers believe will complement their roster effectively. This dynamic underscores the importance of health in the Lakers' decision-making process as they look to build a competitive team.
As the Lakers continue to refine their roster, they have also expressed interest in other centers, including Jericho Sims and Jalen Smith. This indicates that while Robinson was a consideration, the Lakers are exploring multiple avenues to strengthen their frontcourt. The ongoing developments in their roster strategy will be closely watched as they aim to enhance their competitiveness in the league.