When the Golden State Warriors lost Kevon Looney to the New Orleans Pelicans this summer after 10 seasons, they didn’t just lose a reliable center. They lost what head coach Steve Kerr called “a piece of our soul.” Looney had become the heartbeat of the Warriors’ frontcourt, a quiet but commanding presence who embodied the team’s culture of selflessness, toughness, and resilience.
His absence leaves a major void, but Kerr believes veteran big man Al Horford is uniquely suited to fill much of it. Speaking at Warriors media day, Kerr reflected on Looney’s departure and the addition of Horford, who, at 39 years old, is entering his 19th NBA season.
“Yeah, I’ve had people from Boston just text me, call me, rave about how much he meant. And we’re gonna need that without losing Loon.”
“We lost a piece of our soul. We lost one of the great leaders I’ve ever been around. And he didn’t really have to say much to be that great leader.”
“So we’re gonna miss Loon, and I feel very lucky to have Al to fill some of that void.”
Horford, who strongly considered retirement before signing with Golden State, has been clear that the chance to play alongside Stephen Curry was a major factor in his decision. Like Looney, Horford has never been the flashiest player, but his value lies in his steadiness, high IQ, and ability to elevate teammates.
From Boston to Atlanta to Philadelphia, Horford has consistently been praised for his professionalism and leadership. Even at his age, he remains a capable defender, strong screener, and an excellent passer out of the post. Last season with the Celtics, he averaged 8.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, and shot 41.6% from three, proving that his floor-spacing ability remains a real weapon.
For the Warriors, Horford’s ability to stretch the floor and connect plays will be crucial. Steve Kerr has always favored big men who can pass and make quick decisions in their motion offense, and Horford fits that mold seamlessly.
Replacing Looney isn’t just about numbers. He was never the team’s leading scorer or rebounder, but his presence was felt everywhere. Looney’s screen setting freed up Curry and Klay Thompson. His rebounding and positional defense anchored small-ball lineups. And his unselfish approach set a tone in the locker room.
Horford won’t replicate Looney’s exact style, but his combination of veteran poise and defensive versatility will help ease the transition. He brings championship-level experience, having played in the 2022 and 2024 NBA Finals with the Celtics.
Horford isn’t the only reinforcement. The Warriors also added De’Anthony Melton, Gary Payton II returned on a fresh deal, and Seth Curry joined to provide shooting depth. Jonathan Kuminga’s situation has also been resolved after he signed a new two-year deal, giving Steve Kerr more clarity on the forward rotation.
Still, the loss of Looney will be felt deeply. He joined Golden State in 2015, the year the dynasty began, and became part of the Warriors’ identity. His move to the Pelicans closes a chapter. But Steve Kerr’s faith in Horford shows the Warriors believe their window isn’t closed yet.
For the Warriors, Horford’s arrival is about more than on-court production. It’s about preserving a culture, steadying a locker room, and giving Curry and company one more run at glory.
