Two-Time NBA Champion Floated As Ideal Trade Target For Celtics
Looney would add some much-needed physicality
The Boston Celtics are short on reliable big men. Luka Garza has failed to convince Joe Mazzulla that he can be a dependable member of the rotation. His limited defense has likely played a role in his falling out of favor with Mazzulla.
Unfortunately for the Celtics, aside from Neemias Queta, they lack genuine size in the middle of the floor. As such, the front office may need to explore the trade market to address arguably the biggest gap in the current roster construction.
According to Jack Simone of Hardwood Houdini, the Celtics should try to pry Kevon Looney away from the New Orleans Pelicans.
“If the Boston Celtics are looking for a low-risk trade option, Kevon Looney could be an intriguing idea,” Simone suggested. “The New Orleans Pelicans’ big man becomes tradable on December 15, and he could be an ideal trade target for the Celtics to consider for multiple reasons…Looney’s lack of playing time this year could give some pause, but Boston would still be able to cut down their finances and give itself some nice flexibility this summer by adding him to the roster.”
Looney, a two-time NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors, signed with the Pelicans during the offseason. However, he’s played only 12 games for the Western Conference strugglers and has rarely seen the floor.
At 6-foot-9, Looney wouldn’t give the Celtics the true size they need. However, he’s an experienced center who sets solid screens, is a vacuum on the glass and knows how to attack the angles both on and off the ball. He would be a substantial addition to Boston’s second unit moving forward.
Last season, Looney averaged 4.5 points and 6.1 rebounds per game for the Warriors. He shot the rock at a 51.4% clip from the field. Furthermore, when required, Looney makes smart passing reads, averaging 1.6 dimes per game throughout his career.
Convincing the Pelicans to part with a recently-acquired big man won’t be easy. However, the Celtics should at least check the front office’s appetite for a trade. After all, Boston needs another big, and not many will bring the level of experience that Looney can offer.
