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Kevon Looney, a seasoned big man acquired by the Los Angeles Lakers during the summer, is poised to assume a significant role with the franchise in the upcoming campaign. Positioned as the likely primary reserve center behind Walker Kessler, the team anticipates that Looney will deliver robust rebounding, tenacious defense, effective screening, and other unglamorous contributions.
Following a challenging 2025-26 season with the New Orleans Pelicans, Looney entered free agency with multiple options available to him. However, during an appearance on the "Mason & Ireland Show" on ESPN LA radio, he expressed that the Lakers were his foremost preference.
"Being a free agent this year, I didn't know what was going to happen," Looney explained. "There were lots of moving parts with many teams this offseason. Once the Lakers made a few moves and identified a need for a center, this became my top destination. I was able to make it happen, and I'm super excited."
Looney, who spent his collegiate career at UCLA, also noted in a recent interview with Mark Medina of Fadeaway World that the opportunity to play for the Lakers was impossible to refuse, particularly given his personal connections in the region. Although his offensive output dipped last season, he remained productive on the glass.
Veteran Presence and Defensive Value
At 30 years old, Looney holds career averages of 5.7 rebounds and 17.1 minutes per game. With three NBA championships earned during his tenure with the Golden State Warriors, he brings invaluable experience to a Lakers squad that has undergone a significant youth movement. Additionally, his defensive versatility—capable of guarding both frontcourt players and perimeter wings—should prove beneficial for a Los Angeles team seeking improvement on that side of the court.
Originally reported by yahoo.