Fresh NBA Rumors Reveal Knicks, Celtics Target in 2026 Free Agency

The New York Knicks and Boston Celtics reportedly have their eyes on the same big man this offseason.

Per NBA insiders Marc Stein and Jake Fischer, the defending champs and the 2024 champs have interest in free-agent center Kevon Looney, whose club option was recently declined by the New Orleans Pelicans.

According to Stein and Fischer, the Knicks' pursuit of Looney depends on Mitchell Robinson's offseason decision. Robinson, New York's backup center during its title run, is an unrestricted free agent this offseason.

Looney spent 10 years with the Warriors, where he worked with current Knicks head coach Mike Brown, who was the associate head coach in Golden State from 2016 to 2022.

While the Celtics have interest in Looney, they also have Robert Williams III on their list of center targets, according to Stein and Fischer. Williams spent five years in Boston before being traded to Portland ahead of the 2023-24 campaign. Williams is a free agent this offseason as well.

Looney had a rough first season in New Orleans, putting up just 2.8 points and 5.6 boards per game as he appeared in just 21 contests. Williams played 59 games in Portland, putting up 6.7 points and 7.0 rebounds per game.