Lowry: Desire to silence Raptors' doubters will factor into FA decision

Toronto Raptors star Kyle Lowry has a massive decision to make this summer regarding the next chapter of his NBA story.

The impending free agent admitted he doesn't know whether he'll remain with the Raptors but said his desire to silence naysayers after a tough season will factor into his choice.

"It does play a factor in it because I enjoy the challenge of people counting me out, counting the team out," Lowry said during his end-of-season media session Tuesday, according to The Athletic's Blake Murphy.

Naturally, Lowry also wants to ensure his family is provided for.

"My family will be a major factor in this. Also, you know, money talks and years talk, let's be real. ... At the end of the day, I want to make sure my family is taken care of for generations," he said.

Lowry averaged 17.2 points, 7.3 assists, and 5.4 rebounds in 34.8 minutes across 46 games this season. The floor general notably sat out more than half of Toronto's games following the trade deadline, including the team's final seven contests (all losses). Lowry says that decision was made "collectively" to preserve his body entering free agency and also help the Raptors evaluate their younger players.

After winning 53 games in 2019-20, the Raptors regressed significantly in 2020-21 to finish with a 27-45 record. The organization is projected to have a top-10 selection in the upcoming NBA draft after seeing its seven-season playoff streak end.