League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Match Previews

Lakers urged to move on from Kevon Looney as backup center

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 26, 2026, 10:50 PM

Last updated Sep 26, 2026

Lakers urged to move on from Kevon Looney as backup center

Summary

As the Los Angeles Lakers prepare for the upcoming NBA season, analysts suggest that Kevon Looney may not be a viable option as a backup center. While Looney has a reputation as a skilled rebounder, concerns about his recent performance raise questions about his fit in the Lakers’ rotation. Recent discussions spotlight the team's move to sign rising star Walker Kessler, enhancing their frontcourt depth but leaving them reliant on Looney for the immediate future. The Lakers have limited options to solidify the backup center position before the regular season starts next month.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Lakers signed Kevon Looney to a one-year veteran minimum contract.
•Looney averaged 2.8 points and 5.6 rebounds last season.
•Dan Woike warns a short-term solution could negatively affect team dynamics.
•Los Angeles acquired Walker Kessler to enhance their big man depth.
•Trade options for center help may be limited before the February deadline.

Latest Updates

10:50 PMYahoo Sports — Lakers Urged to Dismiss 6’9″ Monster Rebounder: ‘He’s Not the Answer’

What they're saying

"
It is true that no one can dislike good-ol’ Loon. He remains an elite rebounder and a top-of-the-line screen-setter (beware, you small guards out there!), but is Kevon Looney actually what the Los Angeles Lakers need at backup center?Funny enough, the Lakers’ biggest move of the offseason was the addition of rising star big man […] The post Lakers Urged to Dismiss 6’9″ Monster Rebounder: ‘He’s Not the Answer’ appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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