Lakers: Way-too-early targets for the first-round of the 2018 NBA Draft

Mitchell Robinson — C

There are no usable pictures on our database for Mitchell Robinson because, well, he has not played college basketball at all this season.

Robinson, a five-star recruit out of Louisiana, has not played any college basketball this season. Robinson’s story is that similar to Ben Simmons; he committed to Western Kentucky despite having no real interest in playing there. Western Kentucky hired his godfather (yay, more NCAA scandals!) and Robinson followed.

Then Robinson realized he did not want to play for Western Kentucky, instead opting to try to transfer after working out in the summer. His waiver was not approved and Robinson has spent the last year training for the NBA Draft. It is a weird situation that will see his draft stock plummet.

And it could plummet right into the Lakers’ hands.

As it currently stands, the Lakers would be the proud owners of the 24th overall pick in the draft. However, that number could fluctuate anywhere from 22 to 27, depending on the Cavs. Aran Smith of NBADraft.net has Robinson as the 23rd-best prospect in the draft. Jeremy Woo of Sports Illustrated has him as the 21st best prospect. Right in the Lakers’ wheelhouse.

It definitely is concerning that Robinson has not played any college basketball. However, the Lakers are also not looking for their savior with this pick. With Brook Lopez likely out of the picture, LA needs size and they need depth at the center position, Robinson brings just that.

If Robinson were to have played this season he easily would have been a top-10 prospect and likely could have cracked the top-five. Robinson is a menacing shot blocker and finisher at the rim; he is a DeAndre Jordan with better shooting.

It is not even your pick, LA. If he is available, take a risk on Mitchell Robinson.