​Former three-time NBA champion Kevon Looney has joined the Los Angeles Lakers because, in his eyes, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves resemble the dynamic pairing of Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson that fueled his title runs. The Lakers have significantly upgraded their center depth this season, moving from Deandre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes to Walker Kessler and Kevon Looney. Looney brings a wealth of championship experience at the center position, having earned three rings with the Golden State Warriors, and his familiarity with that team helped influence his decision to sign with Los Angeles.
During an appearance on NBA Today, ESPN’s Dave McMenamin explained the motive behind Looney’s decision. He noted that Looney believes he can contribute in a similar fashion to how he helped Curry and Thompson during the Warriors’ championship runs, providing a complementary role to Doncic and Reaves. Looney sees a path where his screen-setting and movement could free up Luka and AR in the same way he freed up Klay and Steph.
“The Lakers needed a reliable backup center, and Looney saw a clear opportunity there,” McMenamin said, citing conversations with someone close to the forward. “He notices a parallel in the half-court sets they’ll run and believes he can replicate the effect he had with Golden State.” The veteran added that Looney’s arrival extends beyond on-court impact. As a UCLA alum who spends his off-seasons in LA, and with his upcoming nuptials to a Cal State alum who shares his athletic background, Looney’s personal life is in a happy place. McMenamin described him as a commendable veteran presence who would bring leadership to the Lakers’ locker room.
Lakers president Rob Pelinka has faced criticism for this season’s free-agent portfolio, with some fans arguing that the moves don’t substantially shift the ceiling of the team. While questions linger about the broader impact of signings like Walker Kessler, some fans remain largely supportive of adding Kevon Looney. His veteran bona fides, playoff experience, and championship pedigree are viewed as valuable assets, particularly when playoff basketball intensifies and rotations tighten.
The belief among many observers is that Looney could become a difference-maker for the Lakers, especially come postseason time when the pressure and physical demands escalate. His ability to anchor the defense and contribute valuable rim protection, rebounding, and decision-making could provide essential depth behind Kessler and the rest of the frontcourt. As the season progresses, fans will be watching to see how Looney integrates with Doncic, Reaves, and the rest of the roster, and whether his familiarity with the “screen-and-roll” style that benefited Curry and Thompson translates into success with the Lakers in big moments.