Prior to the season, much anticipation and hype surrounded Kelly Oubre, Jr. Entering his third season, many expected Oubre to have a breakout year. Almost halfway through the season, he’s proven to be one of the Wizards most important players.
The Washington Wizards‘ Kelly Oubre, Jr. has never been one to lack confidence. From his game day outfits to his “dab” routine when entering the tunnel, Oubre isn’t shy about expressing himself.
This characteristic routinely carries onto the basketball court. In his first two seasons, he played aggressive and passionately whenever he touched the floor. However, this didn’t always lead to positive results.
Oubre appeared reckless and out of control at times, especially when driving to the basket. The talent, athleticism, and potential were clearly there. It was just a matter of putting these three together, which Oubre couldn’t seem to do on a consistent basis. But this season, things are beginning to click.
His unwavering confidence and swagger has remained potent, but it’s now being met with consistent on-court production and energy.
Oubre is averaging a career-high 11.6 points and 4.9 rebounds per game, while he’s bumped his three-point shooting to a respectable clip of 38.1 percent. His play has earned Coach Scott Brook’s trust, which was often lacking during last season.
In game 7 of the playoffs against the Boston Celtics, Oubre barely touched the floor. Now, he’s averaging a career-high 27 minutes per game, good for fourth on the team.
Many fans have argued that Oubre belongs in the starting lineup, rather than coming off the bench. While he began the year starting for the injured Markieiff Morris, he seems to have settled into his role as the 6th man.
In his first two seasons, Oubre could generally only be effective when playing alongside the starters, specifically John Wall. Because he was unable to effectively create his own shot, Oubre needed Wall and others to create shots for him in order to score the basketball. And when he did get open looks, he hit his threes at a below-average rate.
Oubre is no longer a one-dimensional offensive player. His off-season work is clearly paying dividends, evidenced by his ability to create shots for himself, finish with the left hand, and hit open threes. These were all weaknesses in Oubre’s game that held him back prior to this season.
While there’s still room for improvement, he’s become much more comfortable with the ball in his hands. Defenses have to respect his ability to put the ball on the floor and hit outside shots, making him a more dangerous offensive threat.
On the defensive side of the ball, he continues to stand out. Whether it’s guarding point guards or power forwards, Oubre consistently brings energy and tenacity on the defensive end. He’s arguably the Wizards most talented perimeter defender, capable of using his athleticism and wingspan to pest opposing players.
In a 120-117 loss to the Golden State Warriors last October, Oubre had one of his best games of the season. On separate defensive possessions, Oubre stole the ball from Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant, blocked Klay Thompson, and blocked Durant as well. On offense, he hit a flurry of threes, grabbed offensive rebounds, and hit driving layups.
Oubre took on the challenge of guarding Durant and Curry for various portions of the game and held his own. His versatility on both ends of the floor was on full display.
At just 22 years old, Oubre has shown tremendous growth this season. He’s improved in almost every facet of his game, which is a testament to his work ethic and determination.
He’s arguably been the Wizards fourth best player this season behind Wall, Bradley Beal, and Otto Porter. He fits in seamlessly when playing alongside these three, and their chemistry will only continue to grow.
Fans must be encouraged by what they’ve seen from Oubre this season, and hope he’s in a Wizards uniform for a long time.