The Golden State Warriors value reunions with their former players, having welcomed back Andre Iguodala and Gary Payton II recently. While fans eagerly hope for Klay Thompson’s return before the season’s end, a more pragmatic possibility is bringing back long-time Warriors center Kevon Looney. However, an obstacle remains: Looney’s current team, the New Orleans Pelicans, must first release him before the reunion can happen.
Looney departed Golden State in the off-season to sign a surprising two-year, $16 million contract with the Pelicans, far exceeding any offer from the Warriors or other teams. Despite his reputation as a solid, all-around contributor, Looney’s lack of elite potential meant a minimum salary was expected elsewhere. Nevertheless, New Orleans took a chance and invested heavily in him. Looney has performed well individually, but he cannot change the Pelicans’ position near the bottom of the league standings.
New Orleans Pelicans’ Current Focus and Roster Outlook
The Pelicans are unlikely to contend for a playoff spot, especially as they owe their first-round draft pick to the Atlanta Falcons. While there might be an attempt to finish the season strongly, their place at the league’s lowest tier is secure, shifting the team’s priority to developing young talent during the final months. Looney’s playing time will diminish, as New Orleans’ frontcourt includes promising big men like rookie Derik Queen, second-year player Yves Missi, underrated Karlo Matkovic, and two-way rookie Hunter Dickinson. This depth reduces the need to utilize Looney in meaningful minutes.
The Pelicans also hold a team option on Looney’s $8 million salary for next season, which they are expected to decline. This combination of factors suggests that Looney may have played his last significant role with New Orleans.
Potential for a Kevon Looney Buyout and Its Implications
Given these circumstances, Looney is a natural candidate for a buyout. By agreeing to return a portion of his salary to the Pelicans, he could sign a minimum contract with a playoff contender, providing reliable depth at center and reinforcing frontcourt rebounding and defense. This scenario offers benefits for both Looney and a team seeking experienced bench support.
Why the Warriors Are Positioned for Looney’s Return
The Warriors stand out as the most fitting destination for Looney’s comeback. He is well-acquainted with their system, and the team currently manages two aging big men in Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis who require careful minutes management. Additionally, Looney is known for his professionalism and willingness to accept a reduced role, a trait evident during his earlier Warriors tenure.
Everyone involved would likely welcome this reunion, as it suits both the player’s and team’s needs. However, the reunion hinges entirely on the Pelicans’ willingness to waive Looney. Without that waiver occurring before the March 1 deadline, Looney would be ineligible for the playoffs, significantly reducing his attractiveness to potential suitors looking to strengthen their playoff rosters.
The Warriors want Looney back, Looney wants to return, but the New Orleans front office must initiate this possibility by cutting him loose.
