5 Golden State Warriors most unlikely to return for the 2021-2022 season
Golden State Warriors player unlikely to return: Kelly Oubre Jr.
There’s almost zero chance the Warriors and Kelly Oubre Jr. are able to work out a deal. Even a sign-and-trade at $20 million per year may be too difficult for the Warriors to make work on their end.
That’s the annual amount Oubre Jr.’s camp is reportedly wanting to get to. While his athleticism and energy may be worth that much, Oubre Jr. certainly didn’t show that much while with the Warriors.
After a terrific season in Phoenix, averaging over 18 points per game, Oubre Jr. saw that number dip to 15.4 with Golden State. His percentages took a dip as well, but as saw in his 40-point game against Dallas, the upside is there.
Oubre Jr. is just 25. He can create his own shot and thrives at attacking the rim. He’s a solid third-best player on a playoff-contending team, but he’ll still need to take that next step with his three-point shooting and decision-making.
The potential is real, but at that price, it’d be unrealistic for the Dubs to get him back. Now, everything changes if Oubre Jr. is willing to re-sign at a discounted rate, but that seems unlikely.