Rockets reportedly intend to pursue Kevon Looney

The Houston Rockets are trying to deal another blow to their biggest rivals.

NBA writer Sean Deveney reported on Thursday that the Rockets are among the teams expected to pursue Golden State Warriors free agent big man Kevon Looney. Deveney also lists the Pelicans as another such team but notes that the Dubs are hoping to quickly lock up Looney, a favorite of head coach Steve Kerr, once free agency officially begins.

Looney, who is still only 23 years old, averaged 6.3 points and 5.2 rebounds in just 18.5 minutes per game for the Warriors last season. His versatility helped unlock some potent frontcourt lineups, and his two-way impact was massive for them down the stretch of the playoffs.

The Rockets are toying with the possibility of trading their current center, and a player like Looney would be an ideal, cost-effective replacement of sorts if they are able to snare him away from Golden State.