The Golden State Warriors received unfortunate news on the first day of free agency (June. 30).
Kevon Looney, the Warriors’ longtime center, who did his part to help the franchise win three titles during his 10-year stint in the Bay, signed a two-year deal with the New Orleans Pelicans.
Although Quentin Post is capable of accepting a more demanding frontcourt role after Looney’s departure, it’s still a significant blow to a Golden State squad that isn’t known for its electric low-post production.
After Looney’s deal became official on Sunday, Stephen Curry sent the Warriors legend a heartfelt four-word message on his Instagram story.
“Forever a legend Toon!!!!,” the four-time NBA champion wrote.
Looney and Curry played vastly different roles as teammates with the Warriors.
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Looney is a scrappy, traditional center who did all the dirty work for the Dubs, while Curry is a phenomenal shot creator and playmaker who never stops moving when the ball isn’t in his hands.
Curry is undoubtedly a more impactful NBA asset than Looney, but without the UCLA product’s contributions, perhaps Curry wouldn’t have multiple championships on his resume.
With Looney continuing his professional career with a different franchise, the Curry-led Warriors should be laser-focused on landing their preferred free agent target, Al Horford.
Until then, the organization will likely panic after losing the perfect 6-foot-9 frontcourt glue guy.
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