Toronto Raptors: Ranking best free agent destinations for Kyle Lowry

The Toronto Raptors are still doing everything in their power to retain Kyle Lowry, as the franchise legend appears ready to test the free agent market after several playoff teams missed out on the opportunity to trade for him.

Lowry, who averaged 17.2 points and 7.3 assists per game this year, has already laid out what it would take to lure him in as a free agent, as whoever is trying to secure his signature needs to meet his financial demands, whatever they may be. At this point in his career, you can bet he’s angling for a chance at slipping a second ring on his fingers as well.

There are plenty of playoff teams that can use a player like Lowry, considering that his offensive efficiency, defensive hustle, and ability to set up his teammates with key passes have not diminished one bit with age. If a team can scrounge up the needed resources, Lowry could be on his way to Toronto.

Which spot would be the best for Lowry if he decides to leave? These rankings will be based on his fit on the team, his potential to earn a big contract in free agency, and the odds of Lowry winning another championship.

Which of these 4 destinations is best for Toronto Raptors star Kyle Lowry?

4. New York Knicks

The Knicks are already way ahead of schedule in their rebuild, as the emergence of Julius Randle and addition of Tom Thibodeau gave the Knicks a stifling identity on defense that they were able to use in order to beat the living daylights out opponents and make it to the postseason as the No. 4 seed.

If there was one area that was an eyesore for this team last year, it was the point guard position before Derrick Rose showed up. Elfrid Payton was a complete disaster, and Frank Ntilikina proved he was not worthy of a first-round pick. With more cap space than any other team, the Knicks will certainly be players for Lowry.

Kyle Lowry could give the Knicks some punch on offense.

However, Lowry might actually end up as the third option on offense. Randle, fresh off a Most Improved award, is not going to give up a ton of touches, and if RJ Barrett takes the leap that the Knicks expect him to make this season, he could end up getting more shots up than Lowry. That’s probably not what he’s looking for in his next team.

Lowry would probably be OK with deferring to superstars on a team with championship odds, but the Knicks will have to fight to even be the third-best team in their own division next year. Knicks fans may love the idea of adding Lowry, but there are better opportunities out there for him.