Coming off a career-best season averaging 20 points per game, Kelly Oubre Jr. seems like a good fit for the wing-depleted Cleveland Cavaliers team. Standing at 6-foot-6 with a 7-foot-3 wingspan, Oubre possesses the prototypical body for a successful two-way wing in today’s NBA. The eight-year NBA veteran was consistently linked to the Cavs throughout last season and remains a rumored target for them as he enters free agency.
At 27 years old and coming off a two-year contract, Oubre could be looking to capitalize on his career-best scoring season. If the price range is reasonable, Oubre possesses the qualities that make him a great option to complement the Cavs’ core. Here are two pros and one con to consider for the Cavaliers signing Kelly Oubre in free agency.
Pro No. 1: Kelly Oubre’s length and defense
Thanks to his elite physical attributes, Oubre was once known for being a consistently strong defender during his time with the Phoenix Suns. However, his defensive impact has been inconsistent more recently. A change from being on a struggling team to joining a contender could reignite his commitment on the defensive end.
With Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen providing solid interior defense, Oubre wouldn’t be expected to be the primary lockdown defender, but rather contribute positively on that end of the floor. In the series against the New York Knicks, the Cavs chose to play Cedi Osman more for his shooting, exposing his limited lateral speed against the Knicks’ guards and allowing players like Jalen Brunson to take control of the game. By adding Oubre, the Cavs would have someone who can switch onto guards and still make an impact due to his impressive physical attributes.