Hardwood Highlight of the Night: Lowry schools rookie Exum

Although it was backcourt partner DeMar DeRozan who received all the accolades, Kyle Lowry was the real breakout star for the Toronto Raptors last season. 

Lowry flashed occasional stretches of brilliance early in his career but, for one reason or another, he never managed to sustain his productive play. Injuries and bitter clashes with coaches were the usual culprits, though much of that falls on Lowry himself. Reckless play and a hot temperament prevented Lowry from blossoming into a star.

All of that changed last season, though. Lowry reined in his overbearing aggressiveness, choosing instead to pick his spots selectively. By making more mature decisions both on and off the court, Lowry cobbled together a career year, averaging 17.9 points and 7.4 assists while leading the Raptors to a franchise-high 48 wins.

Now in his ninth season, Lowry has matured into a savvy veteran, capitalizing on rookie mistakes made by younger guards. For example, take this play from Saturday's victory over the Utah Jazz.

The play started with Lowry grabbing a rebound and racing down the floor. By pushing the pace, he managed to establish deep post position on Jazz rookie guard Dante Exum.

Seizing low-post position allowed Lowry to survey the floor. He patiently waited for his teammates to set up. The Jazz smartly sent a double in an effort to rid Lowry of the ball. 

Jazz big man Rudy Gobert did a good job of trapping Lowry, but the crafty guard kept his dribble alive. From there, he worked his way to the elbow, where he had more room to maneuver. The move shed Gobert, who was forced to cover the otherwise open Jonas Valanciunas.

Having worked his way to the elbow, Lowry finally decided to pick up his dribble. Although Lowry didn't have much, save for a reset to DeRozan on the wing, he decided to throw a pump-fake just in case. The plan worked, as jumpy rookie Exum bit hard on the fake, awarding Lowry with the contact he hoped to garner. Hitting the shot afterwards was just gravy.

(Courtesy: NBA.com)