Knicks and Lakers Clash Over Three‑Time Champion Kevon Looney After Knicks Release Mitchell Robinson
Knicks eye Looney to fill the void left by Robinson
New York and Los Angeles are both circling veteran center Kevon Looney, a three‑time NBA champion. The Knicks waived Mitchell Robinson on Tuesday, opening a roster spot. The move comes as the Lakers continue to search for a reliable big man. Both franchises have expressed strong interest in Looney. Negotiations are expected to begin before the upcoming free‑agency deadline.
The Knicks’ decision to part ways with Robinson was driven by salary‑cap constraints and concerns over his defensive consistency. Analysts note that Looney’s experience and championship pedigree make him an attractive fit for New York’s rebuilding core. The Lakers, meanwhile, have struggled with interior scoring and rebounding, prompting them to pursue a proven center. Looney’s contract is modest, and his veteran presence could stabilize both teams’ front courts. Sources say the Knicks view Looney as a bridge to a younger, more athletic roster.
General manager Jeff Miller told reporters the team needs a player who can protect the rim and mentor younger bigs. „We believe Kevon brings the right mix of experience and hustle,” Miller said. The Knicks hope Looney can adapt quickly to a faster pace and help improve their defensive rating. If the deal goes through, New York expects to sign Looney to a two‑year contract, preserving cap flexibility for future moves.
Can the Lakers outbid New York for the veteran center?
Los Angeles coach Darvin Ham has publicly praised Looney’s basketball IQ and locker‑room leadership. „Kevon knows how to win,” Ham remarked. The Lakers are prepared to offer a slightly higher salary to secure his services, leveraging their deeper payroll. However, the Knicks argue that their rebuilding timeline aligns better with Looney’s desire to mentor emerging talent. The final decision may hinge on which franchise can guarantee a larger role in the rotation.
If Looney signs with the Knicks, the team could solidify its interior defense and accelerate its transition to a younger core. A Lakers acquisition would likely improve their playoff prospects, adding depth behind Anthony Davis. Both clubs face a critical window to lock down the veteran before other suitors emerge. The outcome will shape each franchise’s strategy heading into the next season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What impact would Looney have on the Knicks’ defense? Looney’s shot‑blocking and positioning can immediately raise New York’s defensive efficiency, providing a mentor for younger forwards.
Why are the Lakers interested despite having Davis? The Lakers need a reliable backup center to reduce Davis’s minutes and protect him from injury, while adding veteran leadership.
When is the free‑agency deadline for this deal? The league’s free‑agency period closes on July 1, giving both teams a narrow window to finalize negotiations.