The Los Angeles Lakers are entering the 2024-25 NBA season aiming to contend under new head coach JJ Redick. Despite having a strong core, they still need to make some key moves to solidify their standing in the Western Conference. Redick has previously expressed interest in adding a big man, but the team’s only frontcourt addition this summer was two-way signee Christian Koloko. The search for a reliable big man continues, especially with Anthony Davis reportedly preferring to play alongside another frontcourt presence.
Meanwhile, the New York Knicks made a bold move by trading for Karl-Anthony Towns, signaling their intent to win a championship as soon as possible. With Towns in the fold and center Mitchell Robinson sidelined until December 2024, Robinson’s role as a one-dimensional bench player no longer fits the team’s needs. As a result, Robinson is now reportedly on the trade block.
Robinson could be an ideal fit for the Lakers. A potential mock trade scenario sees the teams swapping players to benefit both rosters:
Lakers Receive: Mitchell Robinson, Cameron Payne, Pacome Dadiet
Knicks Receive: Jarred Vanderbilt, Jalen Hood-Schifino, Cam Reddish, 2025 Second-Round Pick (LAL)
While Vanderbilt also has injury concerns, his recovery outlook is better compared to Robinson’s. The Lakers gain size to support Anthony Davis, a backup guard in Cameron Payne, and a young prospect in Pacome Dadiet. Meanwhile, the Knicks get multi-positional versatility in Vanderbilt and additional assets to help in their championship push.
Adding Robinson allows the Lakers to shift Davis back to power forward, where he thrived during the 2019-20 season—his best campaign with the team, resulting in an All-NBA First Team selection and a championship. While Robinson isn’t a prolific scorer, his defensive versatility and rebounding are reminiscent of JaVale McGee and Dwight Howard’s contributions during the Lakers’ title run. Although Robinson will miss the start of the season, he can relieve Davis of the heavy defensive load once he returns.
Cameron Payne, who averaged 7.4 points and 2.6 assists last season with the Bucks and 76ers, offers the Lakers a potential upgrade at backup guard. While Pacome Dadiet is a long-term project, his upside is worth investing in for a franchise eager to develop young talent.