Only 85 Games in 3 Years: The Durability Crisis Facing the Lakers' Top Free Agent Targets

Okay, Seattle, listen up. While we're out here in the Emerald City, the Lakers are already making offseason moves, and honestly, it sounds like a mess. They *have* to fix their center position, still chasing that solid rim protector and lob threat they hoped Deandre Ayton would be last season.

Luka Demands an "A-List" Center, But Are They Even Listening?

You know it's bad when superstar Luka Doncic himself is reportedly out here demanding an "A-list" center. An "A-list" center! That kind of public pressure on GM Rob Pelinka and that "revamped" front office? Oof. So, who are these Lakers eyeing to satisfy their superstar? NBA insider Jeff Fischer spilled the tea, suggesting they're looking at Mitchell Robinson, who just won a ring with the New York Knicks, and the veteran big man from the Portland Trail Blazers, Robert Williams III. Sources are also saying both guys are "very open" to just staying put with their current teams.

The Catch: Two Big Men, One HUGE, Glaring Problem

Alright, so Robinson and Williams sound like they *could* be good on paper. When they are on the floor, they impact the game: crashing the glass, being a lob threat, and providing rim protection. But here's the kicker, the actual problem, the one thing that makes you go, "Wait, wha

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t?" Both of these "intriguing options" come with the exact same, massive issue: durability. Williams has only played over 60 games in a season *once* in his eight-year career. Over the last three years, he's only suited up for a grand total of 85 regular-season games. Eighty-five! And Robinson, who's supposedly "a bit more durable," still only played 108 regular-season games in his last three campaigns with the Knicks. So, Luka wants "A-list," and they're looking at guys who can barely stay on the court.

Any Other Options? Spoiler: It's Not Looking Much Better

So, if those two "veteran" centers aren't the answer, what else is in the Lakers' crosshairs this summer? Fischer's report also mentioned they've been linked to restricted free agents Jalen Duren and Walker Kessler. Landing Duren is apparently a total "stretch," with the Detroit Pistons "seemingly determined" to keep him. The only sliver of hope is maybe, *maybe* they could swoop in with an offer sheet for Kessler that the Utah Jazz aren't willing to match. Watching the Lakers navigate this offseason already feels like a desperate scramble. With Luka demanding the best and their top targets coming with major red flags, it's going to be a wild ride down there in Hollywood. From up here in Seattle, we'll just keep cheering on our Mariners, Kraken, and Seahawks, bleeding green and blue through and through.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.