Before sustaining a LCL injury in mid-November, Kelly Oubre Jr. had established himself as a vital cog in the Philadelphia 76ers' game plan. However, during this brutal period for the Sixers' versatile forward, Paul George and Dominick Barlow returned from the fitness issues they were struggling with, and have plugged defensive holes that were plaguing Philadelphia. Now, the 76ers must decide if Oubre's return will be beneficial to the team's postseason ambitions.
Offensively, Oubre Jr. has provided something that the Sixers have craved for several years -- a spot-up shooter who can drain threes from the corner and does not require a high volume of touches when the ball is coming up the floor. His hustle on defense provided Philadelphia with a solid foundation to sustain an impressive transition offense, allowing players such as the electric Tyrese Maxey to thrive.
The 30-year-old is averaging 16.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game, while shooting 49.7% from the floor. Nevertheless, what George and Barlow have brought to the court during Oubre's prolonged absence has provided head coach Nick Nurse with a decision that could cement the franchise's fate for the season.
Resurgent Paul George poses a problem for Oubre Jr.
Paul George's debut campaign was far from spectacular. A lack of consistency in his performances and a litany of injuries prevented Sixers fans from seeing the talented veteran that many thought the franchise had acquired. This disappointing form dampened any expectations that supporters had for George in the 2025-26 season. Yet, the 35-year-old appears to be a different animal.
Through eight appearances, George has recorded 14.1 points, five rebounds, and 3.1 assists. Notably, he has effectively rolled back the years to showcase his elite perimeter defensive skills.
Before his return, the 76ers were prone to conceding easy points from deep due to constant issues when switching assignments, leaving shooters open on numerous occasions. George's communication and savvy defensive attributes have provided stability in this area.
Dominick Barlow provides a different option
Dominick Barlow may not tally the same number of points as the other two frontcourt options, but his emergence as an imposing rebounder and rim-protector has made him a valuable asset with a distinct skillset.
The former San Antonio Spurs forward is registering 7.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. In addition, Barlow chalked up a season-high 14 rebounds during the 76ers' narrow 99-98 triumph over the Golden State Warriors.
Joel Embiid's lack of mobility is a serious issue on defense that the Sixers must solve. Barlow's inclusion in the starting lineup allows the 2023 MVP to prioritise his offensive duties without negatively affecting Philadelphia's ability to win games.
One thing that currently works against Barlow in his quest to cement a starting spot in Philadelphia is his two-way contract situation. A player can only be utilised for a maximum of 50 regular-season games when on this form of contract -- meaning he can only feature on 37 more occasions. Given the level of his performances and with the 76ers still having one standard spot available to them, the franchise could award Barlow with a contract that fixes this problem.
There is no doubt that Kelly Oubre Jr. has been an outstanding option when available for selection for the Philadelphia 76ers this season. However, with his attributes mirroring those that Paul George possesses and Dominick Barlow providing a more physical presence on defense, Oubre's role in the rotation could be reduced in favor of a more balanced defensive gameplan.