Report: Raptors don't plan to trade Lowry

The Toronto Raptors intend to keep Kyle Lowry for the rest of the season.

Teams that have inquired about Lowry's availability have been informed that Toronto doesn't plan to part with its longtime point guard ahead of the March 25 trade deadline, sources told TSN's Josh Lewenberg.

Despite the Raptors' reported reluctance to move him, Lowry still figures to be one of the most sought-after targets over the next week. The six-time All-Star will become a free agent after the season, and the Raptors are currently outside of the Eastern Conference playoff picture having lost six consecutive games.

Lowry is averaging 17.8 points, 7.5 assists, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.2 steals and is shooting 38.6% from deep in 33 games in his 15th NBA season and ninth with Toronto. He leads the franchise in 3-pointers (1,478), assists (4,186), steals (866), and triple-doubles (16) and recently surpassed Chris Bosh for second on the Raptors' all-time scoring leaderboard.

While the 34-year-old didn't completely dismiss the prospect of being dealt this season, Lowry admitted earlier in March that he will end his career as a member of the Raptors, regardless of where he ends up before then.

"I will retire as a Toronto Raptor ... one-day contract, hey, whatever happens," he told reporters.