There’s a reason Kyle Lowry has been in a number of trade rumors over the last couple of weeks. It isn’t that he wants to be dealt; in fact, his preference is to stay with the Raptors until he hangs up his sneakers, and not simply because he’s the longest-tenured member of the 2020-21 roster. Scotiabank Arena has been his home since the lone Canadian franchise in the National Basketball Association chose him with the 24th overall pick in the 2006 draft. Yet, it’s precisely because of his disposition that he’s viewed to be a potential target by such notables as the Clippers and Sixers; regardless or circumstance, he will plod on for the name on the front of his jersey.
Indeed, Lowry has seen it all; he has been at the top, at the bottom, and just about everywhere in between. And whether as a valued teammate of Finals Most Valuable Player Kawhi Leonard or as playoff fodder during the Eastern Conference reign of one LeBron James, he has made sure not to leave anything in the tank every time he sets foot on the court. At the same time, however, his value as a bargaining chip may never be higher; he’s turning 35 this week, and in possession of a $30-million expiring contract that gives prospective employers a Break Glass In Case Of Fire option in the offseason should he not pan out.
To be sure, the Raptors have so far turned away from propositions. Offhand, they’ve told suitors that Lowry’s not on the block. Perhaps they know he’s not the cause of their swoon, and that the solution to success that has so far eluded them is as simple as getting the entire roster — at times decimated by injuries and safety protocols — back for the stretch run. Then again, anything can happen in the intervening days before the trade deadline draws to a close on March 25, not coincidentally his natal day. Could it mark a new beginning for him? Or could it provide him with a present in familiar confines?
At this point, it’s anybody’s guess what the future holds for Lowry. He knows he has no control over the situation, and is bent on soldiering on no matter what. One thing’s clear, however: He’s keen on retiring as a Raptor, even if on a one-day contract. That kind of loyalty deserves reciprocation, but the nature of the business precludes sentimentality. Sooner or later, he will say goodbye. Whether on his terms or on theirs, only time will tell.
Anthony L. Cuaycong has been writing Courtside since BusinessWorld introduced a Sports section in 1994. He is a consultant on strategic planning, operations and Human Resources management, corporate communications, and business development.
