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.
Pro No. 2: Shooting and floor spacing
Oubre is not one to hesitate when it comes to shooting the ball, and that’s precisely what the Cavaliers could benefit from.
He has averaged more than seven three-point attempts per game in the last two seasons and at least four per game in the past six seasons. With his unwavering confidence similar to players like Michael Porter Jr. or J.R. Smith, defenses will have to closely guard him, knowing he is always looking for opportunities to get his shot off. Oubre also possesses above average athleticism and has demonstrated his ability to finish strongly at the rim through contact, making him effective as a slasher.
While there will be instances where Oubre will be relied upon to shoot more consistently, his presence and what he brings to the team’s spacing are more important than carrying the same offensive load he had a year ago. While shooting is the Cavs’ primary need this offseason, it is the resulting spacing they need that will provide Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell with more room to operate.
Oubre’s gunslinger mentality will contribute to shooting over seven three-pointers per game, and his length will ensure that there is no defensive drop-off.
Con: Efficiency/consistency
Coming off a season where he averaged 20 points per game and five rebounds per game, one would expect more interest in Kelly Oubre. However, it’s possible that teams like the Orlando Magic or Houston Rockets may overpay him due to their cap situation, as there seemingly wasn’t much demand for Oubre during the trade deadline. Some of that had to do with Oubre’s broken hand, but even despite that, the concerns had to have been there with Oubre’s play style last season.
While he posted solid numbers on the surface last year, he has not been able to maintain a consistent 34 percent three-point shooting percentage in consecutive seasons. His true shooting percentage tends to fall below the league average, and his role with the Charlotte Hornets allowed him to play in a manner that may not be possible in Cleveland.
Oubre took over 17 shots per game last year but struggled to be efficient. As a member of a lottery team that faced injuries throughout the season, Oubre often had the freedom to be the primary offensive option, leading to inflated scoring figures. It is crucial for him to transition back to a role that aligns with the team’s offensive flow and to avoid taking ill-advised shots.
In the past, players in similar situations have often chosen to prioritize a big payday over joining a contending team. Jerami Grant is a recent example, as he opted to cash in on his successful stint with the Denver Nuggets by signing a lucrative deal with the Detroit Pistons.
If an exceptionally generous offer is presented to Oubre, it may be difficult for him to turn it down. However, if the Cavaliers can find a way to make it work financially, Oubre has the potential to be a valuable addition to their rotation.