The Los Angeles Lakers just pulled off one of the biggest trades in NBA history, landing Luka Dončić in a franchise-altering move.

But as seismic as that deal was, their work is far from over.

By shipping Anthony Davis to Dallas, the Lakers didn’t just lose a co-star for LeBron James-they lost their defensive anchor, a top-five rim protector, and the glue that held their defense together.

Now, with Dončić in the fold, the Lakers’ focus shifts to filling the massive hole left in the frontcourt. Enter Mitchell Robinson.

According to Yahoo Sports’ Kevin O’Connor, the Lakers have expressed interest in trading for the New York Knicks’ big man. On paper, Robinson is exactly what they need: a 7-foot-1 defensive force, an elite shot-blocker, and a dominant presence on the boards.

He’s the kind of player who doesn’t need touches to make an impact-he thrives on protecting the paint, altering shots, and controlling the glass. And at just 26 years old, he fits the Lakers’ new long-term timeline alongside Dončić.

The Lakers are targeting Mitchell Robinson, per @KevinOConnorNBApic.twitter.com/9Ykvn9AOUk — Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) February 3, 2025 But there’s one major red flag: injuries.

Robinson hasn’t played a single game this season as he recovers from foot surgery.

And even before this injury, durability has been a major concern throughout his career. Since entering the league in 2018, he’s played more than 70 games in a season just once.

For a Lakers team that just moved on from Davis in part due to his availability issues, the idea of bringing in another injury-prone big man comes with risk.

The Lakers are in a tough spot. They need a defensive anchor, but they’re not in a position to go all-in for a center who might not fit or stay healthy. Before the Dončić trade, L.A. had two first-round picks available to use in deals-now, they have just one.

With that limited flexibility, they have to be extremely careful with how they use their remaining assets.

This isn’t about punting on the season-if anything, adding Dončić extends their championship window for the next decade.

But this front office isn’t going to panic and overpay for a short-term fix. If they make a move before Thursday’s trade deadline, it’ll be a calculated one.

The Lakers are going to trade for a center. The only question is who, and what price they’re willing to pay.