NBA free agent rumors: Raptors leading team to sign Kyle Lowry?

By Bryan Rose | Jul 1, 2014

Apr 30, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry (7) prepares to shoot a free throw against the Brooklyn Nets in game five of the first round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at the Air Canada Centre. Toronto defeated Brooklyn 115-113. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /

While Kyle Lowry has received significant interest across the NBA from teams like the Miami Heat, Los Angeles Lakers and more, it’s the Toronto Raptors who currently lead the race to sign the point guard. That’s the word from The Oregonian’s John Canzano who states Lowry’s decision come come as early as Wednesday.

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The Raptors had placed Kyle Lowry on the trade block last February, not so much because they wanted to move him but because they were fearful they could lose him in free agency for nothing. However, thanks to their impressive season which lead them into the playoffs, the Raptors decided to retain Lowry and decided they would attempt to re-sign him at season end.

They held true to their word and despite heavyweight NBA teams attempting to lure him away, it sounds as if Lowry could be favoring a return to Toronto, at least according to Canzano.

Kyle Lowry free agency will be committed by tomorrow. Source says Toronto is leader.
— John Canzano (@johncanzanobft) July 1, 2014

Unlike the Lakers, Heat or any other team interested in Kyle Lowry, the Toronto Raptors hold his Bird Rights meaning they can pay the point guard more money and years than any other team in free agency.

If the Raptors and Lowry are to agree on a deal, it’s not known what that means for fellow free agent point guard Greivis Vasquez. The Spaniard is a restricted free agent meaning the Raptors have every right to match any offer he receives, however, it’s not known how much they’re willing to invest into two point guards.