© Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports
Chicago Bulls sought a deal with Kyle Lowry until the veteran point guard joined the 76ers
Before the Philadelphia 76ers managed to strike a deal with Kyle Lowry, the Chicago Bulls reportedly attempted to secure a contract with the veteran guard for the remainder of the 2023-24 season.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Bulls intended to chase Lowry in the buyout market until the 76ers became successful in their pursuit.
“The Chicago Bulls and the New Orleans Pelicans were among teams who hoped to pursue Lowry once he got a contract buyout, sources said. Nevertheless, the opportunity to finally fulfill a lifetime wish for the 76ers was too much for him to pass.”
KLow’s buyout and 2023-24 background
Lowry was coming off a buyout agreement with the Charlotte Hornets in which he'll still get paid by the franchise the total of his expiring contract this season.
The 37-year-old was traded to Charlotte by the Miami Heat last Jan. 23 alongside a 2027 first-round pick at the expense of Terry Rozier. He played in the last 2 ½ seasons as a Heat and averaged 8.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.0 assists in 28 minutes of play for 37 games this season.
The Bulls tried their best to obtain Lowry's play
After they stood pat at this season's trade deadline, the Bulls had solid reasons to chase KLow. Besides seeking additional point guard help in the wake of Lonzo Ball's injury, his landing in Chicago will also materialize a reunion with his close friend DeMar DeRozan whom he played with in the Toronto Raptors from 2012 to 2018. As it is, Deebo might have played a major part in the Bulls’ pitching to convince Kyle to join the Windy City.
But in the end, home is truly where the heart is for Lowry. This time, he opted to represent his hometown Philly team and ignite a reconnection with his former Raptors coach Nick Nurse who now leads the Sixers.
