According to reports, Kyle Lowry could end up with the Philadelphia 76ers if the Charlotte Hornets are unable to complete a trade.
According to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, the Sixers are among the few teams below the first luxury tax bracket, which puts them in a strong position to sign Lowry on the buyout market. Lowry, who grew up in Philadelphia as well, attended nearby Villanova for his undergraduate career.
Earlier this week, the Heat sent Terry Rozier to Miami by trading Lowry to the Hornets. As the Charlotte Hornets begin a retooling with little purpose for a waning 37-year-old, Lowry is not anticipated to play.
Although it’s improbable that anyone will pay Lowry’s $29.7 million salary, the Hornets are still actively searching for a trade partner and are optimistic that someone will step up before the deadline at the end of the month. Lowry and the Hornets will most likely hold buyout talks if the most likely scenario comes to pass, with the veteran returning a portion of his remaining contract to join a contending team.
A primary ball handler who can come off the bench is needed by the Sixers. This season, Patrick Beverley has been given a lot of responsibility in that role, and it’s not his strongest suit. Beverley is a reliable long-range shooter and a defensive nuisance, but he lacks creativity in the halfcourt.
Despite being well past his prime—he only averages 8.2 points and 4.0 assists per game in Miami—Lowry can still be useful in a restricted capacity. Additionally, as a veteran of the playoffs, he may provide a sense of calm to a team still trying to get past the conference semifinals.
While nothing is guaranteed, Lowry’s arrival in Philadelphia makes the most sense given the state of the market.