Golden State Warriors starting center and unrestricted free agent Kevon Looney has made himself millions this postseason.
When the season commenced, Kevon Looney was the Golden State Warriors backup center. He was on his way to being their third-string center when DeMarcus Cousins returned.
However, due to numerous injuries, Looney found himself making game-changing plays on the NBA’s brightest stage. In both of his Western Conference Finals performances, Looney has been excellent, giving Golden State unmatched energy and effort.
While Looney’s been at his best this series, his play all postseason has been spectacular. Shooting over 71% in the Warriors’ 14 postseason games, Looney’s earned the trust of head coach Steve Kerr.
Seeing his minutes increase as the Dubs second-round series progressed, Looney has been the go-to big for Kerr off the bench.
Now, with Durant injured, Looney may finally crack the starting lineup. Although Bogut started both Western Conference Finals’ matchups, Looney started the second half of Game 2. He rewarded Kerr for that chance as well.
In Game 2, Looney was a perfect 6-for-6 from the field. He also secured seven rebounds, three of which were offensive. Looney’s averaging 3.5 offensive rebounds per game in games where he’s given over 20 minutes this postseason.
His efficiency, knack for getting the team extra shots and ability to defend versatile guards should put him on the radar of every NBA team this offseason.
Currently in the last of his contract, Looney is making around $1.5 million. The high-energy 23-year-old will be paid this offseason. It may not be by Golden State, but he’ll be getting at least double his current salary somewhere.
The Warriors, given their limited budget, won’t pay Looney what he’s worth. With Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson to spend the big money on, Looney will be a second thought this free agency with Damian Jones and Jordan Bell both viable options.
The Golden State Warriors have other needs outside of just Looney, so it’ll be interesting how the Warriors prioritize their offseason spending. But, if they’re smart, they’ll get a deal done with their 2015 first-round draft pick.