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Toronto Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry was expected to pick a new team in free agency and immediately had an agreement with the Miami Heat in a sign-and-trade deal, according to multiple reports. The deal is for three years, giving the Heat a veteran point guard with championship experience. How will Lowry’s presence change the Heat?
Kyle Lowry fantasy basketball and Heat futures impact
Lowry immediately raises the fantasy value of every player on the floor, particularly returning shooting guard Duncan Robinson and forward Jimmy Butler. Lowry is a good ball-handler and will distribute the rock well, making sure the Heat get great shots every time down the floor. He might not produce at the same level as he did in Toronto with other scorers, but should rack up more assists and will still shoot the triple enough to have value.
Bam Adebayo will also benefit from Lowry’s presence. The big man is an ideal pick-and-roll partner for the guard and that action should be very successful for Miami this coming season. Lowry might not take as many shots off this action due to Adebayo being a good finisher at the rim and Miami having strong shooters in Robinson and Herro, but expect him to get more assists as a result.
From a team standpoint, Miami’s title futures will definitely rise. The Heat made a big move after a 4-0 sweep at the hands of the Milwaukee Bucks and will be better for it. They are not in the top three in the East, but anything can happen in the playoffs with injuries. If the Heat stay healthy, they’ll be in the mix. Lowry and Butler will get All-Star consideration and Herro could garner some votes for Most Improved Player with a veteran point guard alongside him.