The Raptors could trade Kyle Lowry.
Maybe for the 76ers?
Keith Pompeu of The Philadelphia Inquirer:
A source said Lowry would like to be in Philadelphia. The source believes the Sixers and Raptors may be able to do something.
Toronto told Lowry that they would be willing to exchange it for a preferred destination if they received something of value in return, according to sources.
A league source said the Raptors wanted to reward Lowry for his years of service, helping him secure an opportunity to win another NBA title.
It’s easy to see why Lowry would like to join the 76ers. He’s a native of Philadelphia, and the 76ers – unlike the Raptors – are in contention for the championship.
Of course, it is up to the teams whether the deal will be closed. Toronto’s desire to do the right thing for Lowry, who did so much for the franchise, leads the team to an exchange.
If that’s what Lowry wants. Just because he would like to be in Philadelphia does not mean that he would not be happy to stay in Toronto either.
One complication: Lowry has a salary of $ 30.5 million. Even if they are willing to pay more luxury taxes, 76ers must send at least $ 24.32 million in a Lowry transaction.
A package from Danny Green ($ 15,365,853), Seth Curry ($ 7,834,449) and another player would work. Green and Curry can help the Raptors, who are still in the playoff contest. Or Green and Curry could be played elsewhere if negotiating with Lowry means that Toronto is willing to step back. Philadelphia picks can make it worthwhile for the Raptors.
The 76ers would sacrifice key depth and stability, even after this season. Lowry has an expiring contract and Curry is in jail for two more years.
But Lowry is probably worth it. He is the perimeter creator and the outside sniper that Philadelphia needs to complement Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons in the playoffs. Lowry’s defense makes it an especially strong fit. The 76ers window is open.
I am not predicting that the Raptors will trade Lowry for Philadelphia. But everyone involved has reason to be intrigued by the possibility.