Kelly Oubre Jr. is a player who divides opinions throughout the Philadelphia 76ers' fan base. Many supporters have questioned whether a player of his calibre can make a valuable contribution to a franchise that has aspirations of competing at the higher echelons of the Eastern Conference.
In recent days, Jake Fischer of the Bleacher Report suggested that "there has been a 'buzz' about the Sixers looking to trade Kelly Oubre Jr. and Andre Drummond," implying that Philadelphia's general manager, Daryl Morey, is attempting to reduce the Sixers' salary cap.
However, this trade rumour has drawn a strong reaction from the former Charlotte Hornets star.
Kelly Oubre Jr. hits back at critics
With trade rumours spreading like wildfire on social media, every expert and fan alike will jump at the opportunity to provide their own analysis or opinion on the matter, with a large percentage of respondents pointing out that Oubre's efficiency -- specifically from three-point range -- had proven to be an issue for the 76ers during their previous campaign.
The negative noise surrounding the state of the 29-year-old's performances was enough to force him into a defiant response: "For those saying I'm garbage because my 3% went down. Still put up numbers and I would still cook you," the forward then went on to write via his Instagram account, "I played through finger surgeries on my (left hand) thumb and pinky for three years, but still put my soul into this ****. Hope to see y'all soon."
Warning: NSFW language
Kelly Oubre Jr. with a strong reaction to the trade rumors #Sixers pic.twitter.com/kcPuQo3GmD
— Ky Carlin (@Ky_Carlin) September 10, 2025
Statistics don't lie; Oubre Jr's three-point percentage (29.3%) was shambolic during the 2024/25 NBA season. Although this does not paint the entire picture and fails to highlight the fact that the versatile wing was burdened with a heavier role in the offense due to the injuries that plagued the Sixers' roster.
In addition, Oubre cannot be questioned on the work ethic he brings to the court. His grit and determination are evident each time he features in the 76ers' rotation. Not just this, but the Kansas graduate exhibited traits of an impressive perimeter defender on several occasions last year, registering a career-high 1.5 steals per game.
Nevertheless, with Philadelphia prioritizing the return of Quentin Grimes and the clear lack of appreciation for Kelly Oubre Jr., this could be the perfect time for the franchise to shed his salary to avoid escalating a conflict before the NBA season commences -- especially with a feel-good factor returning as the 76ers tease the return of their superstar, Joel Embiid.