3. Kelly Oubre Jr. is the best trade chip for the 76ers
Somehow, Philadelphia managed to retain Kelly Oubre Jr. on another discounted deal –– a surprising development for one of the feel-good stories in the NBA last season. After acing a prove-it year that forced him to settle for an ancillary role, the flashy wing found a home in the City of Brotherly Love, where he's expected to be a crucial piece for a contending team.
However, with Paul George now in the equation, Oubre's footing in the pecking order stands to take a backpedaled hit. He successfully slotted in as a tertiary exploiter last season, but will he still be able to replicate that seamless integration with another mouth to feed in the nine-time All-Star? The jury is mum for now.
In the event that the 76ers find him a dangling part of their armory, they could ultimately resolve to find a more defensive-minded alternative to replace him. Fortunately, he's on a bargain, short-term deal –– the likes of which should attract teams scraping the barrel for second-round picks.