The Boston Celtics are actively seeking to upgrade their frontcourt depth ahead of free agency, placing veteran center Kevon Looney on their target list as of June 29, 2026.
This move comes after an underwhelming postseason where Boston blew a 3-1 series lead against the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round of the playoffs.
According to reports from NBA insiders Marc Stein and Jake Fischer, the frontcourt vacancy became a priority after trade-deadline acquisition Nikola Vucevic struggled to fit into the system, leading head coach Joe Mazzulla to bench him during critical playoff moments.
While center Neemias Queta exceeded expectations in his starting role, team president Brad Stevens is reportedly prioritizing veteran reinforcements who bring championship experience without demanding the spotlight.
The roster opportunity emerged after the New Orleans Pelicans officially declined Looney's $8 million team option for the final year of his contract, turning the 30-year-old into an unrestricted free agent.
During his single season in New Orleans, Looney appeared in just 21 games, averaging 2.8 points and 5.6 rebounds in under 15 minutes per contest while battling persistent injury concerns.
"It's believed that [Kevon] Looney is also on Boston's list of center targets," reported The Stein Line.
Boston expects competition for the three-time NBA champion, as the New York Knicks are also monitoring Looney depending on the free agency outcome of Mitchell Robinson.
New York head coach Mike Brown maintains a strong personal connection with Looney from their shared years together with the Golden State Warriors, which could heavily influence the center's final decision.
In addition to Looney, the Celtics are tracking former Boston center Robert Williams III as an alternative option to restore rim protection, according to sports.
yahoo. com.
Williams, who spent five seasons in Boston before being traded, averaged 6.7 points and 7.0 rebounds over 59 games with the Portland Trail Blazers last season but continues to carry durability risks.
Due to stringent financial constraints, the Celtics must find low-risk, cost-effective options rather than pursuing expensive trades, as reported by heavy.
com.
Adding a proven veteran like Looney or reuniting with Williams represents the calculated depth adjustments Stevens is exploring before training camps open in October.
