The Philadelphia 76ers were one of the talks of the NBA offseason as they got entangled in some highly-publicized drama with James Harden.
Harden was expecting a large contract extension, but instead, the 76ers decided to play hardball which led to the guard’s trade request.
The former All-Star demanded a trade to the Los Angeles Clippers but Daryl Morey has been insistent that he’s happy to hold onto Harden until the right trade materializes.
With all the spotlight on Harden’s situation, it’s easy to forget that Philadelphia still has one of the more talented rosters in the league.
For example, the 76ers’ signing of Kelly Oubre in free agency went almost unnoticed and he should play a role off the bench for the team.
At Philadelphia’s Media Day, Oubre made a bold statement about his fit with his new squad via Austin Krell of ESPN.
“I don’t see myself fitting in…. I see myself standing out,” Oubre said.
Kelly Oubre Jr. on joining the 76ers:
“I don’t see myself fitting in…. I see myself standing out.”
(via @NBAKrell) pic.twitter.com/IYzW1HS2nR
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) October 6, 2023
Oubre has bounced around the league a few times during his career, though this time he lands on a 76ers team that is still shooting for a championship despite all the distractions.
Any wing-sized player who’s shown some outside shooting ability and scoring prowess will have opportunities to land on teams and Oubre fits the bill.
Oubre’s name is probably more impactful than his actual game given some of the performances he’s had in the past, but he was still a solid, low-risk signing for Philadelphia.
The 76ers might need to lean on Oubre more than anticipated if they do end up dealing Harden, but that remains to be seen.
NEXT: Chris Broussard Outlines What James Harden Should Do To Start The Season