Back in October, Toronto Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry told The Vertical that he intended to test free agency this summer. Lowry reaffirmed that statement on Monday:
Expected as it was, Kyle Lowry made it official this AM in Toronto, telling local reporters: “I will be opting out” to become a free agent
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) May 8, 2017
Winning a championship is of paramount importance to Lowry:
“A ring. Nothing else. I just want s ring.” – Lowry on free agent priorities
— Blake Murphy (@BlakeMurphyODC) May 8, 2017
On Saturday, Lowry stressed his belief that LeBron James is more or less an unstoppable force in the Eastern Conference. If he believes that he can’t get past James’ Cavaliers, Lowry may be motivated to join a Western Conference team; the San Antonio Spurs could be an intriguing destination for the All-Star point guard.
DeMar DeRozan, Lowry’s teammate and fellow All-Star, chose to stay with the Raptors last offseason on a five-year, $139 million deal rather than leave for his hometown Los Angeles Lakers.
One has to wonder whether DeRozan’s display of loyalty last summer will affect Lowry’s decision this offseason; the two are very close friends.