The New York Knicks already boast one of the more imposing frontcourts in the league - a blend of size, skill, and physicality that’s helped power their rise in the East. Between Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson, New York has a duo that can stretch the floor, protect the rim, and dominate the glass. But with the postseason looming and Robinson still working his way back from injury, there’s a growing sense that the Knicks might not be done fortifying that rotation.
One name to keep an eye on? Kevon Looney.
The veteran big man, a three-time NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors, is currently on the fringes of the rotation in New Orleans. He’s appeared in just 17 games this season and hasn’t seen the floor since December. With a team option for next year and the Pelicans trending in a different direction, there’s a real chance Looney becomes available via the buyout market.
And if he does, the Knicks make a lot of sense.
Looney’s not a flashy player - never has been. But he’s the type of glue guy every playoff team needs.
Think Mitchell Robinson-lite: a relentless rebounder, smart positional defender, and a guy who thrives doing the dirty work. During his time in Golden State, Looney carved out a reputation as a dependable postseason performer - someone who could switch onto guards, battle in the paint, and extend possessions with timely offensive boards.
His contributions rarely showed up in the box score, but they mattered. A lot.
In New York, he’d likely serve as insurance for Robinson, whose health has been a question mark this season. And there’s already a level of familiarity with Knicks head coach Mike Brown, who worked with Looney during his assistant coaching days with the Warriors. That connection could help ease the transition and ensure Looney fits right into the Knicks’ system and culture.
At 30 years old, Looney still has plenty left in the tank - especially in a limited role. He’s averaging 2.7 points and 5.1 rebounds this season, modest numbers, but again, his value goes beyond the stat sheet. He’s a low-maintenance, high-IQ player who knows how to operate within a team concept and elevate the stars around him.
For a Knicks squad with real aspirations in the East, adding a battle-tested big like Looney could be a savvy, under-the-radar move. He won’t steal headlines, but come playoff time, he might just steal a few crucial possessions. And in a conference race that feels as wide open as it’s been in years, those extra possessions could make all the difference.