We are just weeks away from the NBA offseason being in full swing and the Golden State Warriors are still uncertain of what the future holds for Kelly Oubre. The young forward has given little indication as to what he will do this summer.
Will Oubre rejoin the Dubs and give them the 3-and-D bench presence they’ve been missing ever since Andre Iguodala? Is there a chance Oubre will allow himself to be traded to a different franchise? Or, will he leave Golden State high and dry in free agency? We just don’t know.
Time is running out for the Golden State Warriors as they are still uncertain of what Kelly Oubre Jr. will do in the offseason.
Oubre became a key piece to the Warriors last season after breaking out of an early shooting slump and converting to a positive presence on both ends of the floor. He has the ideal build for the Warriors’ system, playing multiple roles but thriving as a corner shooter and scrappy defender at the point of attack.
Being able to retain Oubre this summer not only keeps a sense of stability on the roster but avoids the need to replace him whether it be in the NBA Draft, free agency or via trade. However, as stated, there is no indication as to what Oubre is going to do.
It has been reported that Oubre is seeking $20 million a year after back-to-back solid seasons. This is a price the Warriors will have to match in order to avoid losing him as it appears other teams are interested in snagging Oubre for themselves.
In the past, Oubre seemed reluctant to take on a bench role in Klay Thompson’s eventual return. But, that concern has been alleviated as Oubre now seems ready to do whatever is needed to win a ring.
"“I’m just here to help this team win,” he said. “Whatever I can do to help this team, that’s what I’m gonna do. Staying ready so I don’t have to get ready.”Via NBC Sports"
Truthfully, we are dealing with some mixed signals. It’s hard to tell what Oubre will do this summer. Yet, it’s vital the Warriors do everything in their power to convince him to stay. His experience and production on the bench would patch up one of their main holes right now.
By bringing Oubre back, the Warriors can then use their two NBA Draft picks and a $5.7 million MLE to target help in other positions such as the backup guard spot. But, we just won’t know if Oubre is staying until free agency begins on August 2.