The New York Knicks seem ready to bounce back from the loss of unrestricted free agent Mitchell Robinson, who departed for the Boston Celtics.
The Knicks continue exploring options in free agency, and Kevon Looney has become one of their top targets, with the Los Angeles Lakers also reportedly in the mix for the veteran.
Lakers, Knicks Set to Battle for Veteran Center Kevon Looney
NBA insider Jake Fischer dropped a big revelation on his Bleacher Report livestream on Thursday that New York is expected to sign Looney.
ClutchPoints’ NBA insider Brett Siegel also doubled down on the speculation on Friday.
“After signing Andre Drummond earlier tonight, I’m told the Knicks are still interested in adding another center for added frontcourt depth and have not ruled out Kevon Looney on a minimum deal, sources told ClutchPoints,” Siegel posted.
After signing Andre Drummond earlier tonight, I’m told the Knicks are still interested in adding another center for added frontcourt depth and have not ruled out Kevon Looney on a minimum deal, sources told @ClutchPoints.
The Lakers are another team that has contacted Looney.
— Brett Siegel (@BrettSiegelNBA) July 4, 2026
Though the Knicks have already agreed to a one-year deal with Drummond to serve as Karl-Anthony Towns’ backup, the team is still looking to strengthen its rotation.
Looney is seen as an experienced option who could provide depth and reliability in the paint.
Last season was a challenging one for Looney after he left the Golden State Warriors after a decade and joined the New Orleans Pelicans. His role was reduced, as he appeared in 21 games, making eight starts while averaging just 14.7 minutes per contest.
Looney recorded 2.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game last season while shooting a career-low 41.7% from the field. Though offensive production and usage declined, he remains a valuable role player because of the things that don’t always show up in the box score.
His rebounding and physical screens make him an attractive option for a franchise seeking dependable frontcourt depth.
The Knicks may also have an advantage in pursuing Looney because of head coach Mike Brown, who was the assistant coach at Golden State and worked with Looney.
However, Siegel also highlighted the Lakers’ interest in the veteran.
“The Lakers are another team that has contacted Looney,” Siegel added.
Los Angeles is entering a new era after acquiring Walker Kessler, but adding a proven veteran might provide more toughness and championship experience.
As a three-time NBA champion, Looney could offer valuable leadership and postseason know-how to a revamped Lakers roster.
A reunion with the Warriors also cannot be ruled out, as a return to the team where Looney enjoyed his most successful years remains a realistic possibility.
However, that potential reunion is on hold for now, as the Warriors’ plans involving him are expected to remain in limbo until LeBron James makes his final decision regarding his own future, according to NBA insider Scoop B. Robinson.
