Looney Brings Measure of Stability to Dubs Frontcourt

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - MARCH 29: Kevon Looney #5 of the Golden State Warriors dribbles the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the game on March 29, 2019 at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - MARCH 29: Kevon Looney #5 of the Golden State Warriors dribbles the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the game on March 29, 2019 at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
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Golden State Warriors Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Golden State Warriors Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Golden State Warriors can rely on Kevon Looney offensively

Scoring has never been his forte, and there isn’t a breakout on the horizon. Though he has the ability to make shots at all three levels, it’s all derived from other players. Making the occasional three and some free throw line jumpers keeps defenses honest. Looney stays within himself, and it’s what makes him a favorite of the current staff.

Finishing enough plays when needed is the key to unlocking the rest of his value. Loon is a fantastic screener, leading the Warriors in screen assists per game despite playing 19 minutes per game. Being a steady presence on the offensive glass and eating space is beneficial for the entire offense; the Dubs are a 98th percentile offensive rebounding team with him on the floor.

His floor-running limitations and lack of explosion have always capped his upside. He’s the offensive antithesis of James Wiseman: solid in the halfcourt, technically sound, extremely slow and limited. For a Warriors team that expects a better scoring distribution next season, he’ll have to keep giving what he can.