Toronto Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry plans to opt out of his contract to become a free agent this offseason, which doesn't come as a surprise. By doing so, he is eligible to re-sign with the Raptors on a five-year max deal worth over $200 million. However, multiple reports indicate that Lowry plans to legitimately test the open market this summer and may leave Toronto. Here are the four teams that have the best chance of luring him away from the Raptors:
4) Indiana Pacers
Paul George has been begging for help in Indiana, and Lowry would give him a legitimate co-star. Of course, Lowry would want a guarantee from George that he won't be leaving town to join the Lakers, but Indiana has a need. Jeff Teague is also an unrestricted free agent this offseason, and Lowry would be a definite upgrade.
3) San Antonio Spurs
There is a very real possibility that Tony Parker has played his last NBA game, and even if he returns next year, the Spurs need to start looking for a replacement. Enter Lowry, who would form a very capable Big 3 with Kawhi Leonard and LaMarcus Aldridge. San Antonio has been a player in free agency the last few years and are expected to be that again. They likely won't be able to (or want to) offer Lowry a max deal, making this the biggest indicator of how much Lowry wants to win (depending on where else he signs, of course).
2) New York Knicks
Lowry was very nearly traded to the Knicks in 2013 before the deal fell apart at the last minute, and there remains at least some interest form both sides. New York is debating on whether they will start a rebuild this offseason, and that will largely depend on if they can trade Carmelo Anthony.
If they can, they will likely opt for a point guard in the draft. However, if they are unable to trade Anthony, they could try to sign Lowry and make a playoff push.
1) Philadelphia 76ers
Lowry is a Philadelphia native, and the Sixers are already planning on making a run at him. The biggest advantage the 76ers have is a bunch of cap space. They will offer him a max deal, no questions asked. Playing with all of their young pieces may be appealing to Lowry - it simply depends on if he wants to go to an immediate contender or serve as a mentor for Philly as they grow into one.
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