Golden State Warriors big man Kevon Looney had a miserable 2019-20 campaign. The 24-year-old was in and out of the lineup for the most part, until finally succumbing to a season-ending hip injury.
Looney recently opened up about his injury-riddled season, and the 6-foot-9 forward/center admitted that at one point, his injuries already had an impact on his mindset during games:
Kevon Looney's been cleared for full contact for a month. Had core surgery right after the season for nagging injury: "I couldn't really jump (last season), I couldn't really slide. Biggest part for me is to stop being scared. I played last season scared to move."
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) September 24, 2020
Looney was only able to suit up for 20 games for the Dubs last term, averaging 3.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.0 assists in 13.1 minutes per game. It was a disappointing run after a promising 2018-19 campaign, which saw him emerge as one of the team's bright young prospects.
The good news, however, is that Looney himself recently shared how he's now gotten back to shape:
Kevon Looney says he’s feeling good and can run freely again on the floor after a variety of injuries. Looney says this is as good as he’s felt since the start of his third year in the league — two years ago.
— Nick Friedell (@NickFriedell) September 24, 2020
If all goes according to plan, Looney should be able to be at full strength once the new season tips off some time in December. He had a few starts last season, so it will be interesting to see if head coach Steve Kerr will be willing to hand over the starting job to Looney once he is fully up to speed.
The 2020-21 season will be an important one for Looney, with the former 30th pick having just two more years remaining in his current deal. It is worth noting that he has a player option for 2021-22, which means that he could actually opt out next summer. A fine performance for him this coming season might just earn him an extension from the Warriors, or it will at least increase his value should he decide to test the waters of free agency in 2021.
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