The Raptors did not trade Kyle Lowry before Thursday afternoon’s trade deadline. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reports (via Twitter) that Lowry is remaining with Toronto.
Lowry was one of the biggest names among this year’s trade candidates and seemed increasingly likely to be on the move as the deadline neared and the Raptors shifted into full-fledged seller mode. Toronto dealt Norman Powell to Portland and moved Terence Davis and Matt Thomas for draft picks in deals that appear designed to open up roster spots to accommodate a three-for-one type deal for Lowry.
However, it seems the Raptors ultimately didn’t feel any of the offers they received warranted parting with arguably the greatest player in franchise history. Lowry has made six All-Star teams during his time in Toronto and helped the team win its first championship in 2019.
The Sixers, Heat and Lakers were said to be the top suitors for the veteran point guard, who turned 35 years old Thursday, but those teams were apparently unwilling to part with the top trade assets Toronto was seeking in a deal. Those players included Matisse Thybulle (Philadelphia), Tyler Herro (Miami) and Talen Horton-Tucker (L.A.).
Lowry was always fine with the idea of finishing the season with the Raptors, sources tell Wojnarowski (Twitter link). He’s now on track to hit unrestricted free agency this offseason, and a new deal with Toronto is possible, since the team holds his Bird rights. The Heat, after missing out on Lowry at the deadline, may also pursue him in free agency, assuming they clear the necessary cap room.
A sign-and-trade involving the Heat or another team could also be a possibility this summer if Lowry wants to move on. The Raptors seem optimistic they’ll be able to work out such a deal if Lowry wants to land elsewhere, tweets Mark Medina of USA Today.
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