What does Kelly Oubre Jr bring to the Sixers starting 5?
By Nick Butler
![Kelly Oubre Jr., 76ers - Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports Kelly Oubre Jr., 76ers - Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/73507a9c12eaca2882e872faa1bac9549ea8cd2f2e90da627b737edaf75deb74.jpg)
The latest offseason addition by Daryl Morey could be the most important moving forward. As of now, per Nick Nurse, Kelly Oubre will be sliding into PJ Tucker’s spot in the lineup after the blockbuster trade with the Los Angeles Clippers.
While Tucker didn’t bring much offensively, his energy and willingness to do whatever it takes to help the team win could not be understated. However, Oubre brings energy and more to this starting 5 including the ability to slash and spread the floor.
When coming to Philadelphia, it was reported that Oubre felt “disrespected” by the offers he was receiving from teams. Oubre has been playing with a chip on his shoulder and has become an instant fan favorite here in Philly for the way he plays and the swagger he brings onto the court.
His first game playing for Nick Nurse’s Sixers had everyone in awe as to what he was capable of bringing.
Kelly Oubre Junior with 27 points
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) October 27, 2023
5-6 from 3 😘
pic.twitter.com/4T9g1hisw6
Not only can he be a walking bucket, he has the attitude to back it up.
Kelly Oubre talking to fans in the middle of an inbound pic.twitter.com/H71h4hNpCS
— NBA Dramatics (@NBADramatics) October 27, 2023
Oubre has no problem chirping fans or the opposing team’s players. Being able to be a pest and getting into opposing player’s heads is a true gift. It is the Philly attitude and hard-nosed play style that has earned him a lot of love from the fan base.
In 3 games this season, Oubre is averaging 19 ppg, 4 rebs, 0.7 ast with a 50% FG, 31.3% 3PT and a EFG% of 56.6%. While he was already averaging 29.3 MPG, this could be the chance he was looking for when signing with Philadelphia.
The speed, IQ, and willingness to defend and being good at it just automatically upgrade the Sixers starting 5. Oubre is 28 and currently in his prime. Oubre can become a full-time starter and a true star in this league while being surrounded by Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Tobias Harris.
His ability to slash and get into the dunker position makes him a good option for when Embiid gets doubled team. Oubre can also spread the floor and force the opposing team to respect his 3-point shooting ability.
This starting 5 officially has 5 scoring threats on the floor when the starting lineup is out there together. You better believe that Nick Nurse will put everyone into a position to succeed and his system is exactly what this team was made for.
I fully believe that Oubre will make a strong case to stay in the starting 5 and prove his worth to the entire league. The Sixers have been searching for a player of Oubre’s caliber and have finally found him. The ceiling is as high as he can make it and Nick Nurse will help him break through.