Lakers getting a little Looney

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, July 8, 2026

The Los Angeles Lakers signed veteran forward Kevon Looney to a one-year, $3.9 million contract to serve as the primary backup center behind newly acquired starter Walker Kessler. This addition strengthens the Lakers’ frontcourt depth following recent roster changes and supports their efforts to build a competitive rotation for the upcoming season.

The Los Angeles Lakers have added veteran forward Kevon Looney to their roster on a one-year contract reportedly worth $3.9 million, sources close to the negotiations confirmed Tuesday. Looney, an 11-year NBA veteran and three-time NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors, is expected to serve as the primary backup center behind newly acquired starter Walker Kessler.

Looney, 30, who played last season with the New Orleans Pelicans, began his career after being drafted 30th overall by the Warriors in 2015 out of UCLA. Over his career, he has established himself as a reliable rebounder and defender, known for his ability to set effective screens and provide physicality in the paint. During Golden State’s 2021-22 championship season, Looney averaged six points, 7.3 rebounds, and two assists per game.

The Lakers secured Kessler, a promising young center, in a sign-and-trade deal with the Utah Jazz, reportedly agreeing to a four-year, $130 million contract. Looney’s role will be to support Kessler in the frontcourt rotation, alongside forward Sandro Mamukelashvili, who recently signed a four-year, $52 million contract with Los Angeles.

This move comes as the Lakers reconfigure their big man rotation following the trade of former starting center Deandre Ayton and the departure of backup Jaxson Hayes, who signed with Utah. The team currently has a 14-player roster and retains the flexibility to add another player.

In pursuit of further roster improvements, the Lakers are reportedly targeting Jonathan Kuminga, a 23-year-old wing player who most recently played with the Golden State Warriors and Atlanta Hawks. Sources familiar with the situation indicate the Lakers are considering a two-year, $20 million deal for Kuminga, whose athleticism and size (6-foot-7) could address the team’s need for a starting small forward. Last season, Kuminga averaged 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and shot 33.3% from three-point range.

The addition of Looney underscores the Lakers’ focus on bolstering depth and experience in their frontcourt as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.