The Raptors could trade Kyle Lowry.
Maybe for the 76ers?
Keith Pompey from The Philadelphia Inquirer:
A source said Lowry would like to be in Philly. The source believes the Sixers and Raptors may be able to get something done.
Toronto told Lowry they would be willing to trade it to a favorite destination if they get anything of value in return, sources said.
A league source says the Raptors want to reward Lowry for his years of service by helping him get a shot at winning another NBA title.
It’s easy to see why Lowry would want to join the 76ers. He was born in Philadelphia, and the 76ers – unlike the Raptors – are in championship battle.
It is of course up to the teams whether a deal is made. Toronto wants to do well with Lowry, who has done so much for the franchise, and is pushing the team to a trade.
If that’s what Lowry wants. Just because he’d love to be in Philadelphia doesn’t mean he wouldn’t be satisfied staying in Toronto either.
One complication: Lowry has a salary of $ 30.5 million. Even if they are willing to pay more luxury taxes, the 76ers must send out at least $ 24.32 million in a Lowry transaction.
A pack from Danny Green ($ 15,365,853), Seth Curry ($ 7,834,449) and one other player would work. Green and Curry could help the Raptors, who are still in the playoff race. Or Green and Curry could be flipped elsewhere if the Lowry trade means Toronto is willing to step back. Choices from Philadelphia could make this worthwhile for the Raptors.
The 76ers’ would sacrifice key depth and stability, even after this season. Lowry has an expiring contract and Curry will be in prison in two years.
But Lowry is probably worth it. He is the creator of the perimeter and outside shooter that Philadelphia needs to complement Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons deep in the playoffs. Lowry’s defense makes him a particularly strong fit. The window of the 76ers is open.
I don’t predict the Raptors will trade Lowry to Philadelphia. But everyone involved has reason to be intrigued by the possibility.