The Los Angeles Lakers have signed veteran center Kevon Looney to a one-year, $3.9 million contract, according to agent Todd Ramasar as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania. The deal secures a veteran backup for the Lakers’ newly acquired center, Walker Kessler, and addresses a critical need for rim protection and rebounding on the roster.
Why the Lakers Targeted Kevon Looney
The Lakers pursued Looney after evaluating the backup center market, which included higher-priced options like Mitchell Robinson. According to reports, Robinson commanded a $15 million annual salary, a price point the Boston Celtics were prepared to meet. By signing Looney at the veteran minimum, the Lakers acquired a proven, championship-level rotation player without committing significant salary cap space.
Kevon Looney is a three-time NBA Champion. His experience with the Golden State Warriors brings a specific pedigree to the Lakers’ locker room, particularly in terms of screen-setting and defensive positioning.
How Looney Fits the Lakers’ Rotation
Looney is expected to serve as the primary backup to Walker Kessler. Head coach JJ Redick’s system may also integrate smaller lineups, potentially utilizing players like Sandro Mamukelashvili to provide additional spacing. Looney’s role will focus on his core strengths: high-level screen-setting, rebounding, and defensive reliability.
Last season, Looney’s role diminished in New Orleans as the Pelicans pivoted toward younger centers like Derik Queen and Yves Missi. He appeared in only 21 games, averaging 2.8 points and 5.6 rebounds. The Pelicans ultimately declined his $8 million team option, making him a free agent.
Market Comparison: The Backup Center Landscape
The movement of backup centers this offseason highlights a clear divide in team strategies regarding salary allocation. While the New York Knicks opted to sign Andre Drummond to fill their vacancy, the Lakers chose a more conservative financial route with Looney.
| Player | Team Move |
|---|---|
| Kevon Looney | Signed with Lakers (Veteran Minimum) |
| Mitchell Robinson | Market value ~$15M (Targeted by Boston) |
| Andre Drummond | Signed with Knicks |
Watch how the Lakers utilize Looney in late-game situations. His ability to set effective screens is often more valuable to a team’s offensive efficiency than raw scoring numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is Kevon Looney’s contract worth?
Looney signed a one-year deal for the veteran minimum of $3.9 million.
Why did the Pelicans move on from Looney?
The Pelicans declined his $8 million team option to prioritize playing time for younger centers on their roster, specifically Derik Queen and Yves Missi.
Who will start at center for the Lakers?
Walker Kessler is expected to anchor the center position, with Looney providing support off the bench.
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