Toronto Raptors trade rumors: Lowry for Okafor is the new blockbuster rumor

One of the more interesting trade rumors recently surfaced as it links the Toronto Raptors trading their star for an emerging big man.

Talks are circulating that All-Star Kyle Lowry may be part of a deal that could send him to the Philadelphia 76ers as the Raptors look to get center Jahlil Okafor.

If this pushes through, it would be an incredible deal as the Raptors will give up arguably their best player to get a center with a high ceiling and a lot of potential.

Toronto were one of the best teams last year as they amassed a 56–26 record in the regular season; good enough to finish second in the Eastern Conference. They eventually reached the Eastern Conference finals where they were eliminated by the Cleveland Cavaliers, but it seemed that the future was bright for the Raptors. 

A big reason for that is Lowry; he was incredible last season as he averaged 21.2 points, 4.7 rebounds and 6.4 assists per game. He was also efficient as he drained 43 percent of his shots and was a reliable 81 percent from the stripe.

At 30 years old, Lowry is on his prime and it may be a way for the Raptors to maximize his worth as they are looking for a young prospect in Okafor.

The ESPN trade machine actually approves this trade and goes to analyze that the Sixers would benefit by winning roughly around four more games than expected if Lowry is on the squad.

For the Raptors, they are expected to lose six more games if this deal is made and Okafor plays for Toronto.

Lowry has a contract that expires in the 2017–18 season where he has a player option. He is also set to earn $12 million in the coming year which could still be considered a steal for his output.

The Raptors should tread lightly on this rumor as they still have a very reliable center in ValančiÅ«nas, so the arrival of Okafor would be a baffling decision.