Kevon Looney‘s lengthy stay with the Warriors is ending. The veteran big man has agreed to a two-year, $16MM contract with the Pelicans, ESPN’s Shams Charania tweets.
Looney joins a frontcourt that includes Yves Missi, late lottery pick Derik Queen, Zion Williamson and Herbert Jones, among others.
Looney is noted for his defensive work and durability. He has appeared in at least 74 games over the past four seasons, including 76 this past season.
He was on the second unit much of the season, as his minutes were cut to 15 per game while Trayce Jackson-Davis and Quinten Post saw their roles expand. Looney averaged 4.5 points, 6.1 rebounds and 1.6 assists.
Looney’s Pelicans debut will be his 600th career regular season appearances. He played a major role in Golden State’s run to the NBA championship in 2018 and 2022. He’s been on the Warriors’ roster since he was a late first-round pick in 2015.
The Pelicans will use a portion of their non-taxpayer mid-level exception to sign Looney. The signing will hard-cap the team at the first tax apron.