Knicks vs. Lakers: Battle for Kevon Looney Heats Up NBA Free Agency
Essentially Sports · July 4, 2026
Key takeaways
- Both the Knicks and Lakers are pursuing free agent center Kevon Looney after Mitchell Robinson left New York for Boston.
- The Knicks already signed Andre Drummond but still want added frontcourt depth while staying under the second apron.
- The Lakers need Looney after trading Deandre Ayton, leaving Walker Kessler without experienced backup at center.
Two Contenders, One Center
The Knicks just lost Mitchell Robinson to the Celtics, and now they're squaring off with the Lakers for his potential replacement: three-time champion center Kevon Looney. It's a rare case of the defending champs and a star-studded Western Conference squad chasing the exact same role player at the exact same time.
Why the Knicks Are Still Shopping
New York already brought in Andre Drummond on a one-year, $3.9 million deal to back up Karl-Anthony Towns. But per NBA insider Brett Siegel, that hasn't stopped the Knicks from pursuing Looney too. James Dolan's mandate to stay under the second apron pushed Robinson out the door to Boston (three years, $47.4 million), and the front office is clearly trying to patch the frontcourt without blowing past their financial ceiling. Adding Looney on a minimum deal would give Mike Brown another trusted big — the two spent six seasons together in Golden State, so the fit and familiarity are already there.
Why the Lakers Want Him Too
LA's frontcourt situation just got a shake-up of its own. After trading Deandre Ayton to the Wizards, Walker Kessler is stepping into the starting center job — but that move left zero experienced depth behind him. With Luka Doncic anchoring the offense and over $260 million already committed to this roster, the Lakers need a low-cost, high-IQ veteran who can rebound and protect the rim in spurts. Looney checks every box, and reports say Jonas Valanciunas (Jokic's backup in Denver) is also on their shortlist.
The Case for Looney
His 2025-26 season wasn't pretty — 2.8 points and 5.6 rebounds across just 21 games in New Orleans, limited by knee issues, which led the Pelicans to decline his option. But that stat line undersells what he offers on a minimum contract: elite offensive rebounding instincts, a decade of Warriors championship experience, and a proven ability to thrive as the low-usage big next to a ball-dominant star. Whether that star ends up being Brunson or Doncic is the real question here.
What Happens Next
Both front offices are treating this as urgent business, not an afterthought. Expect a decision within days rather than weeks, since minimum-deal free agents this valuable don't stay unsigned for long once two contenders are circling.
Why it matters
This free agency battle reveals how two very different title contenders are managing roster construction under financial pressure. For NBA fans, it's a preview of how frontcourt depth could shape both teams' championship odds next season.
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