A heartwarming display of cross-sports respect unfolded in Toronto this week, as former Raptors icon Kyle Lowry paid tribute to Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews in a unique and personal way.
A Legendary Fashion Statement
On Sunday, January 11, 2026, Kyle Lowry arrived at Scotiabank Arena for a game between his Philadelphia 76ers and the Toronto Raptors wearing a black Toronto Maple Leafs jersey. The jersey was not just any sweater—it was a signed Auston Matthews jersey featuring a personal message from the NHL superstar to the NBA champion.
Lowry, who helped lead the Raptors to their historic 2019 NBA championship, told media he respects "the hell out of Auston." The gesture immediately captured the attention of fans and players alike, symbolizing the deep connection between Toronto's sporting legends.
Matthews Responds from Mile-High City
The news quickly reached Auston Matthews, who was in Denver preparing for a game against the Colorado Avalanche. When asked about Lowry's fashion choice, the Maple Leafs' leading scorer expressed his admiration.
"Pretty cool," Matthews told reporters. "He's a Raptors legend, a Toronto legend and a guy I have a lot of respect for. I bumped into him a few times in my tenure here and he has been nothing but class. It was pretty cool to see him wearing that jersey."
Matthews backed up his words with action on the ice the following night. In Denver on Monday, January 12, he recorded a goal and an assist while playing a season-high 25 minutes and 29 seconds to help the Leafs secure a 4-3 overtime victory over the league-leading Avalanche. This marked just Colorado's third home loss of the 2025-26 NHL regular season.
A Fitting Toronto Farewell for Lowry
The jersey tribute was part of an emotional return to Toronto for Lowry. On Sunday, he reminded media that he plans to sign a one-day contract with the Raptors to officially retire as a member of the franchise he helped bring a championship to.
The love from Toronto fans was reciprocated the very next day. During Monday's game at Scotiabank Arena—the second half of a back-to-back series—Lowry received a standing ovation from the crowd when he checked into the game during the fourth quarter. This potentially marked his final NBA appearance on the court where he became a Canadian sports icon.
This exchange of respect between two of Toronto's most beloved athletes highlights the unique bond within the city's sports community, where excellence and mutual admiration transcend the boundaries of hockey and basketball.
