The Lakers are gearing up for another run with LeBron and Anthony Davis leading the way, looking to make a splash after a quiet offseason. The Knicks, having landed Karl-Anthony Towns, are going all-in to compete in a stacked Eastern Conference.
Meanwhile, the Spurs are in full rebuild mode with Wembanyama, trying to find the right young talent to surround their rising star. A deal between these three teams could reshape their futures and give each one exactly what they’re missing heading into the new season.
Mock Trade
Lakers receive: Mitchell Robinson, Miles McBride
Knicks receive: Jarred Vanderbilt, Tre Jones
Spurs receive: Gabe Vincent, Cameron Payne, 2025 Second-Round Pick (via LAC), 2027 Second-Round Pick (via LAL), 2030 Second-Round Pick (via LAL)
The Lakers Land A New Defensive Anchor
In this potential trade, the Lakers bring in Mitchell Robinson, a defensive specialist who could immediately bolster their frontcourt. Robinson, who averaged 5.6 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.2 steals in 31 games last season, is known for his shot-blocking and rebounding prowess. For the Lakers, his arrival would mean allowing Anthony Davis to shift to his preferred power forward position more frequently, adding balance to the Lakers’ lineup.
Robinson has been one of the better rim protectors in the league when healthy, and despite battling injuries last season, his impact on the court is undeniable. With his length and athleticism, he’d be the perfect complement to Davis, giving the Lakers two elite defenders in the frontcourt. Robinson’s ability to grab offensive rebounds also creates second-chance opportunities, which would benefit shooters like Dalton Knecht and Austin Reaves.
In exchange, the Lakers are giving up Jarred Vanderbilt, who was key in their defensive schemes but lacks the true rim-protection ability that Robinson provides. Gabe Vincent also heads out in the deal, but the addition of Miles McBride gives the Lakers a young, defensively capable guard who can fit into their rotation. McBride, who averaged 8.3 points and 1.7 assists with the Knicks, may not have put up big numbers, but his energy on defense and his ability to guard multiple positions make him a great fit for the Lakers’ bench.
Ultimately, this trade gives the Lakers a reliable center, something they’ve been searching for to maximize Davis’ talents, while also adding depth in the guard position with McBride. Though they part ways with Vanderbilt and Vincent, the potential defensive upgrade with Robinson makes this deal a solid move for the team as they aim to stay competitive in the Western Conference.
The Knicks’ Side Of The Trade
The Knicks have been busy this offseason, making a huge splash by trading for Karl-Anthony Towns and solidifying themselves as serious contenders. With Jalen Brunson running the show and Mikal Bridges in the mix, they’re clearly aiming high. In this trade, the Knicks bring in Jarred Vanderbilt and Tre Jones, two players who can give them the kind of depth and versatility they need to make a deep playoff run.
Vanderbilt is a perfect fit for Tom Thibodeau’s defensive-minded system. He’s one of those guys who just hustles non-stop, grabs boards, and can guard multiple positions. For a team like the Knicks, who love grinding out games on defense, Vanderbilt’s energy would be huge. He might not put up huge numbers, but his impact is felt everywhere on the floor, especially when locking down the opposing team’s best scorers.
Then there’s Tre Jones, a solid addition to the Knicks’ backcourt. With some of their previous guards out, Jones comes in as a reliable playmaker who can also defend. Last season, he averaged 10.3 points and 6.6 assists, proving he can handle the ball and run an offense. He’ll give the Knicks some flexibility behind Brunson, allowing them to manage minutes better and keep the offense flowing.
Trading away Mitchell Robinson and Miles McBride might sting a little, especially since Robinson has been such a key piece defensively. But with Towns now anchoring the frontcourt, the Knicks needed to make moves to balance the roster. Vanderbilt’s hustle and Jones’ steady hand at point guard bring exactly what the Knicks need—depth, defense, and the ability to keep things rolling while their stars shine.
The Spurs Reload With Veteran Guards And Draft Picks
For the Spurs, this trade is all about continuing to build around their young star Victor Wembanyama while adding solid veteran pieces and future draft capital. In this deal, San Antonio brings in Gabe Vincent and Cameron Payne, two experienced guards who can provide immediate contributions, while also securing multiple second-round picks for future flexibility.
Gabe Vincent has had a rocky start to his tenure with the Lakers, struggling through injuries and inconsistent play. In the 2023-24 season, Vincent averaged 3.1 points, 0.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists, far from the impact he had during Miami’s 2023 Finals run. Still, a fresh start with the Spurs could give him the opportunity to regain that form. With his experience and ability to hit big shots, Vincent could be a great addition to San Antonio’s backcourt, offering mentorship and some scoring off the bench.
Cameron Payne, who recently joined the Knicks, has proven to be a solid playmaker and energy guard. In the 2023-24 season, Payne posted 7.4 points while playing in a limited role. Known for his high basketball IQ and his ability to push the pace, Payne could offer a steady hand for the Spurs’ young lineup. His experience in playoff settings with Phoenix could also prove valuable as the Spurs develop their young core around Wembanyama.
In addition to these two guards, the real prize for the Spurs might be the draft capital they receive in the form of second-round picks in 2025, 2027, and 2030. These picks will give San Antonio the flexibility to either draft young prospects or package them in future deals as they continue to build around their franchise cornerstone. For a team looking to stay competitive while focusing on the future, this trade aligns perfectly with the Spurs’ long-term vision.
