Los Angeles signs veteran center Kevon Looney to one-year, $3.9 million deal
los-angeles-signs-veteran-center-kevon-looney-to-one-year-3-9-million-deal
The Los Angeles Lakers have bolstered their rebuilt frontcourt by agreeing to a one-year, $3.9 million contract with free-agent center Kevon Looney, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported.
Looney, 30, played last season for the New Orleans Pelicans after spending 10 years with the Golden State Warriors. His role in New Orleans diminished as the club prioritized younger big men; he appeared in 21 games, averaging 2.8 points and 5.6 rebounds before the Pelicans declined their team option for 2024-25.
Despite limited minutes, Looney remained a sought-after free agent thanks to his reputation as a dependable rebounder, physical screener, and respected locker-room presence. Earlier reports indicated that the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics explored signing him before filling their center positions elsewhere.
The move continues a sweeping offseason overhaul at center for Los Angeles. Walker Kessler, acquired from the Utah Jazz, is expected to start, while Deandre Ayton was traded to the Washington Wizards and Jaxson Hayes departed in free agency. Looney is projected to serve as an experienced backup who can provide depth and leadership behind Kessler.
The signing also gives the Lakers another reliable frontcourt option as the organization reshapes its roster around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
Source: Hoops Wire
