Golden State Warriors that disappointed: Kevon Looney
In the 2019 playoffs, the Golden State Warriors saw center Kevon Looney put in a few terrific performances. His main improvements came as a defender that could adequately switch onto guards and an offensive rebounder.
Given his terrific play against Houston, the Warriors awarded Looney with one of the only contracts that are above a minimum value. With Andrew Wiggins, Draymond Green, Stephen Curry, and Klay Thompson all on max-value deals, it’s rare to get a deal about $3 million annually.
Looney got one, and he hasn’t played like he should be paid better than a player like shooting guard Kent Bazemore. Looney had six points against the Lakers and then just three against the Grizzlies.
Against Los Angeles, he did play reasonably well, collecting 13 rebounds. He had five offensive rebounds in just 20 minutes of action. Against Memphis, it was a different story as he managed just four rebounds and three assists in 24 minutes.
If Looney was just a touch better, both games could’ve resulted differently. Sadly, he didn’t. I’d expect Looney to be back next season, just in a more limited capacity with James Wiseman set to return.