Sixers rumors: Kyle Lowry interested in Philadelphia

I’ve been an avid proponent of adding Kyle Lowry to the Philadelphia 76ers. I’ve written about why the Sixers should inquire about him, three reasons why to trade for him, and why he would stay here for the long term. Now it’s rumored by Keith Pompey of the Inquirer, that Lowry is interested in playing with the Sixers. (subscription needed)

"“A source said Lowry would like to be in Philly. The source believes the Sixers and Raptors might be able to get something done. But if it comes to that, Toronto would most likely want some picks, young players, and veterans with expiring contracts for Lowry, who’s making $30 million this season.”"

Pompey also noted that the Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Clippers are other teams that are also interested in Lowry. However, out of these three teams, the 76ers have the most to go get him, based on what Pompey wrote that the Raptors would probably want for him.

What it would take for the Philadelphia 76ers to acquire Lowry and why they make the most sense as a trade partner.

In terms of being a trade partner, Philadelphia has some interesting pieces. They have the majority of their first round picks, some interesting young players, and some solid expiring contracts on the roster. Below is a potential trade that could get this deal done.

*Not included: 2021 first round pick and 2023 Top-10 protected first round pick

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The Sixers could throw in even more first round picks if they needed to outbid the Heat and the Clippers. Both competitors don’t have many first round picks thanks to previous trades. Outside of Tyler Herro (who the Heat probably want to keep at all cost), neither Miami nor Los Angeles have a better younger prospect outside of the Tyrese Maxey to offer Toronto.

This is a steep price to pay for 76ers, there’s no denying that. Maxey plus two first round picks for a guy who will probably be really good for only another season or two seems like overpay. However, Philadelphia has to maximize this MVP caliber season from Joel Embiid and if winning a title is the main goal, then going all-in for Lowry right now makes sense.

If this trade were to occur, the Sixers would have to be great in the buyout market. Losing the depth of Danny Green, Mike Scott, and Terrance Ferguson would leave the bench barren. However, 76ers’ president of basketball operation Daryl Morey has an excellent history of landing key free agents in the buyout market, so there should be little concern in that regard.

Next. Sixers should see if Fournier is available. dark

It’s great that Lowry is rumored to be interested in playing for the Philadelphia 76ers and out of the team’s interested, the Sixers can offer the most for his services.