Good, better, best: Cleveland Cavaliers free agent wing targets

Better – Kelly Oubre, Jr.

At the 2023 NBA trade deadline, the Cavaliers reportedly had their eyes on a trade with the Charlotte Hornets centered around 27-year-old Kelly Oubre, Jr. but fell short of a deal due to Oubre’s broken hand.

Now, the veteran wing is entering unrestricted free agency and might be available at the Mid-Level Exception for the Cavaliers. Last season, Oubre earned a total of $12.6 million and could likely sign for a similar number again.

NBA writer Brian Windhorst mentioned that Oubre is a target to keep an eye on for Cleveland, meaning the Cavs have not yet lost interest in his fit on the roster.

As a career 33 percent 3-point shooter, Oubre would come with a level of risk associated. Oubre’s skill set might have a multiple-week-long hot streak, draining seemingly every shot and hustling on every play on defense.

Conversely, Oubre will have frustrating portions of the season in which his lackluster play holds him back.

Oubre never stops hustling, though, and he never gives up on his shot. He will shoot himself out of his slump given time, and he can is guaranteed to put his best effort in every contest. On the Cavs, Kelly Oubre, Jr. would bring another layer of grit on both ends of the ball and help to maintain the team’s energy. He would slot easily into the starting five next to the Cavs’ core.

He does not always need the ball in his hand, having learned to play off the ball next to Stephen Curry in Golden State and later with LaMelo Ball in Charlotte. Oubre is not a phenomenal playmaker, but he can find the open man and allow his teammates a chance to find an open spot coming off a screen.

Given Oubre’s inconsistency, who would be the best target for the Cavs to fill out their starting squad?