Kevon Looney’s long-standing chapter with the Golden State Warriors has officially closed as he signed a two-year, $16 million deal with the New Orleans Pelicans. On July 18, Warriors guard Moses Moody shared insights on a radio show about the significant impact Looney’s departure will have on the team’s leadership and locker room dynamics.
The Impact of Kevon Looney’s Departure on Warriors Leadership
During his appearance on the Willard & Dibs show for 95.7 The Game, Moses Moody reflected on how losing Kevon Looney is a major blow for the Warriors, particularly highlighting his leadership role. Moody emphasized the unique presence Looney maintained within the team, both as a mentor and a steady figure since Moody’s arrival.
It’s going to be tough losing Loon in so many ways,
Moody said.
He’s been here since I got here. The person he’s been for the team and for me is immeasurable. He definitely can’t be replaced in any way — including the yoga room.
Moody elaborated on the personal support Looney provided, especially in encouraging wellness routines like yoga, which played a surprising but meaningful part in team culture. Looney even helped finance Moody’s yoga practice during his first year and promoted voluntary pregame spiritual activities, creating a welcoming environment for newcomers.
…The way he looked out for me and brought [yoga] to my attention and made it accessible to me. He even paid for me to do it in my first year. So just extending that out to guys coming in the way he did for me. And he didn’t put pressure on me to do it. Same thing with Chapel. Going to Chapel before the games. He told me he was going and it was up to me to go if I wanted to or not.
Across nearly 600 regular-season games in Golden State colors, Looney contributed as a reliable role player, averaging 5 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. His consistent presence during the Warriors’ championship runs underscored his value beyond the stat sheet.
Prospective Additions to Fill the Void: Horford and Melton
With Looney’s exit leaving a gap, speculation has grown around key veteran targets linked to the Warriors in free agency. NBA insider Marc Stein noted on July 20 that both Al Horford and De’Anthony Melton are expected to sign with Golden State, providing experience and versatility.
We are indeed three full weeks into free agency now, but I still expect Al Horford and De’Anthony Melton to wind up in Golden State when their signing commitments are made public and official,
Stein wrote.
Horford’s potential addition would be especially valuable, as he offers the ability to replace Looney’s role while also adding defensive strength and floor spacing. Combining Horford with defensive anchor Draymond Green could create beneficial on-court synergies for the Warriors going forward.
Ongoing Contract Talks With Jonathan Kuminga Remain Unresolved
The Warriors are also navigating uncertainty surrounding the contract negotiations with Jonathan Kuminga, their former lottery pick and restricted free agent. Reports from July 17 indicate Kuminga’s camp is seeking a $25 million annual salary, which has caused hesitancy from Golden State officials given Kuminga’s uneven contributions so far.
Kuminga’s holding pattern has generated the most media attention to date. His agent Aaron Turner has held numerous discussions with Warriors officials in Las Vegas, league sources tell The Stein Line, with the hope of securing a contract — even a short-term contract — that pays at least $25 million in average annual salary … whether that’s to stay with the Warriors or switch teams via sign-and-trade,
Stein reported.
Sources say that the Warriors have expressed reluctance to go that high in price over a long-term agreement while also seeking some level of first-round draft compensation in any theoretical trade that ships Kuminga elsewhere.
While Kuminga’s future with the Warriors remains uncertain, this does not deter Golden State from pursuing Horford and Melton as priorities. The team aims to blend veteran leadership and fresh energy regardless of the outcome with Kuminga, addressing roster gaps and preparing for the upcoming season.
What These Changes Mean for the Warriors Moving Forward
Kevon Looney’s departure marks a significant transition in the Warriors’ locker room culture and leadership structure. Moses Moody’s comments reveal how Looney’s influence extended far beyond gameplay into mentorship and team cohesion.
The addition of veterans like Al Horford and De’Anthony Melton is expected to bolster the roster, offering depth and experience needed after losing a foundational player like Looney. Meanwhile, the outcome of Kuminga’s contract talks could further shape Golden State’s direction as they balance the need for young talent against financial considerations.
These developments come at a critical moment as the Warriors prepare for another competitive NBA season. The reshuffling of leadership and roster composition will test the team’s ability to maintain its championship-caliber performance without one of its longtime pillars.