The Toronto Raptors rumors centered around Kyle Lowry simply will not go away, as even the fact that the veteran point guard shut down some rumors on Instagram has done little to put off teams like the Miami Heat. The Heat remain interested in Lowry, and names like Goran Dragic and Kendrick Nunn have been mentioned as potential gains for Toronto.
Lowry is averaging 18.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game this season, showing that he can still be a quality starting point guard in his advanced age. With the Heat willing to part with players and picks to improve fast, Lowry is still on their radar.
If Masai Ujiri wants to build for the future knowing that the Raptors might be on the verge of losing Lowry and Norman Powell this offseason, he could consider this trade to Miami.
Michael Scotto of HoopsHype is reporting that the Heat are willing to part with Dragic, Nunn, and Canadian big man Kelly Olynyk if it means they can secure Lowry and form a Big Three alongside Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo.
The latest Toronto Raptors rumors have Kyle Lowry going to the Heat
Dragic is averaging 15.0 points per game, mostly off of the bench, on 46% shooting, showing that even at 34, he can still fill it up at a solid clip. However, because he is a one-year Brid rights player, he does have the right to potentially veto this trade if he doesn’t like the idea of going to the Raptors.
Nunn is scoring less than he did as a rookie, but he is still tallying 14.0 points per game on 46% shooting. He would instantly be the team’s new starting point guard, and the fact he’s 25 means his best basketball might still be ahead of him.
Olynyk, a native of Kamloops, is putting up 10.3 points and 6.0 rebounds per game this year. He would be an upgrade over Aron Baynes at center.
This trade could actually benefit the Raptors in the short and long-term, provided Nunn is resigned. With two quality scorers that can start or come off the bench and a new offensive center that could replace Baynes, Toronto would get stronger while sending Lowry to a team that can win a championship.
Saying goodbye to Lowry will be painful, no matter how it comes about. At least this trade gives the Raptors more ammo for the playoff run this year while potentially giving them pieces for 2021 and beyond.