Rocket Bummer: Kyle Lowry Re-signs with Toronto Raptors

May 4, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry (7) questions a call by an official as Brooklyn Nets guard Shaun Livingston (14) walks away in game seven of the first round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at the Air Canada Centre. Brooklyn defeated Toronto 104-103. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

Earlier this week, Space City Scoop expressed its pleasure of the Houston Rockets’ courting of free agent Kyle Lowry. That excitement has quickly come to an end as the multitalented guard re-upped with the Toronto Raptors.

Toronto improved vastly last season under Lowry’s guidance, and the thought was that his scoring and passing ability would greatly exceed that of Jeremy Lin and Patrick Beverley. If not for the coaches’ commitment to Paul Pierce, Lowry easily would have made the All-Star team this season.

Much of the focus now remains on the courtship of Carmelo Anthony and LeBron James. But make no mistake, missing out on Lowry is a big blow. He shined during his time in Houston and the Rockets realized the mistake it made when opting for Lin over the more proven Lowry.

As to whether the Rockets pursue an upgrade at the 1-spot beyond this is questionable. James Harden dominates the ball and sports the 12th highest usage rate in the league, while also having averaged 6.1 assists per game in 2013-14. But having a true point guard would alleviate a lot of pressure on Harden. It’s just a shame it won’t and can’t be Lowry now.