Mitchell Robinson
Another center that would help the LA Clippers significantly is Mitchell Robinson. Robinson enters this off-season as an unrestricted free agent. If the Clippers decide to let Hartenstein walk, Robinson would come to the Clippers and battle with Zubac for the starting role. Robinson is 24 years old and is coming off one of the best seasons of his young career.
Playing for the New York Knicks, Robinson is known for his elite shot-blocking ability as well as his efficient scoring ability. Throughout the 2021-22 NBA season, Robinson averaged 8.5 points per game, 8.6 rebounds per game, and 1.8 blocks per game, shooting 76.1% from the field in only 25.7 minutes per game. It is clear what Robinson brings to the table.
The LA Clippers are missing a defensive-minded center. These types of centers are extremely hard to find. During the 2021-22 NBA season, Robinson averaged a defensive rating of 106 on 8.3 contested shots per game. Jaren Jackson Jr, who finished 5th in defensive player of the year voting, averaged a defensive rating of 106 on 9.9 contested shots per game. Robinson’s value on the defensive end is unmatched.
The LA Clippers do not need a center whose main focus is to score. There are numerous guys on the Clippers who can score the ball at an elite level. The Clippers need a center who can finish around the rim, rebound the basketball, and play elite defense. Robinson checks each one of these boxes.
As Mitchell Robinson will receive interest from numerous teams, the LA Clippers should keep an eye on his situation with the Knicks. If Robinson is available for the right price, the Clippers should make an offer. Adding a guy like Robinson should be one of the Clippers top priorities this off-season.