Kennedy is a huge admirer of O'Connor. When she left, he all but promised to replace her.
What actually happened on Scotus is O'Connor resigned, Kennedy replaced her and Roberts replaced Kennedy leaving the place status quo. In a way, O'Connor never left.
I agree that Kennedy has become O’Connor (Why does he admire HER?). But, everything I have read indicates that Roberts has voted conservative consistently, unlike Kennedy. Have I missed some of Robert’s voting record?