The Los Angeles Lakers' one-year, $3.9 million deal for three-time NBA champion Kevon Looney is looking like a smart move after the center's strong commitment to franchise star Luka Doncic. This comes as the Lakers look to stabilize after a tough stretch, including a 110-115 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on May 12, 2026.
The Lakers inked Looney to a one-year contract to serve as the primary backup center behind starter Kessler. His career earnings exceed $50 million, but his on-court production dipped last season. Looney played only 21 games for the New Orleans Pelicans, averaging 2.8 points and 5.6 rebounds per contest.
That limited output made the signing a risk. Analysts labeled him a replacement-level player. The Lakers' front office clearly believed his championship pedigree and veteran presence could outweigh recent statistical declines.
Early returns suggest the investment is justified, primarily due to Looney's impact off the hardwood. He recently vowed he would "run through a wall" for Luka Doncic, emphasizing a team-first "we" mentality. That declaration has instantly made him a respected voice in the locker room.
Winning three titles with the Golden State Warriors alongside legends gives his words weight. Even if his minutes are limited, providing leadership for a team that has lost four of its last five games is valuable.
His role becomes more important if the team's recent form continues. Their last five results show a 1W-4L record (LLLLW), with consecutive losses to Oklahoma City and Houston.
The main worry is the lack of proven options behind Kessler. If the starting center gets injured, Looney would be thrust into a larger role. At this stage of his career, he may not be a full-time starting-caliber NBA center.
This leaves the Lakers potentially thin at the five spot. Going into a season with only two true centers on the roster is a challenge for any team with playoff aspirations. Defense and rebounding could suffer if forced to use smaller lineups for extended periods.
Looney projects to slot in as a defensive-minded backup who sets solid screens and rebounds. His skill set complements the offensive firepower of Doncic and Austin Reaves. The Lakers are building the best possible team around those two stars, and Looney's unselfish play fits that vision.
The team's recent results, including a 108-131 loss to Oklahoma City on May 10 and a 125-107 defeat on May 8, highlight a need for defensive stability. Looney's experience in winning systems could help address that. He is already looking like a tremendous voice behind the scenes.
As of now, the $3.9 million risk on Kevon Looney seems all worth it for the Los Angeles Lakers. His leadership and clear commitment to the team's cornerstone player have provided immediate intangible benefits, even as the squad seeks to turn around its on-court fortunes.
