In their quest to capture their first NBA championship since 1983, the Philadelphia 76ers have made a significant move by signing Kelly Oubre Jr. The announcement was made on Tuesday, as the 27-year-old American swingman joins the team with the goal of bolstering their chances of winning it all.
Philadelphia 76ers Sign Kelly Oubre Jr. In Hopes Of Contending for NBA Championship
Last season, Oubre had an impressive performance with the Charlotte Hornets, averaging a career-high 20.3 points, 5.2 rebounds, 1.4 steals, and 1.1 assists in 48 games. The eight-year NBA veteran has consistently demonstrated his scoring ability, averaging at least 15 points per game over the past five seasons. Throughout his career, which spans over 527 games, he has maintained averages of 12.8 points and 4.4 rebounds while playing for teams such as Washington, Phoenix, Golden State, and Charlotte.
signed on the dotted line. âïž pic.twitter.com/4PVSfPTBS5
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) September 26, 2023
Oubre’s arrival adds depth and versatility to the Sixers’ lineup, which already boasts a formidable roster. The team features reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Joel Embiid, three-time scoring champion James Harden, forward Tobias Harris, and the promising 22-year-old guard Tyrese Maxey. However, the status of Harden remains uncertain, as he has requested a trade after exercising his $35.6 million contract option to stay with the 76ers for the upcoming season.
The signing of Oubre serves multiple purposes for the 76ers. Firstly, his presence provides insurance and flexibility in the event of a trade involving one of the team’s core players, such as Harden. Additionally, Oubre could potentially be involved in a trade if the 76ers decide to pursue Portland Trail Blazers’ star player Damian Lillard. Lillard has expressed his desire to be moved before the start of the 2023-24 season, and Philadelphia could be a potential destination for him.
As NBA teams prepare to gather for training camps in the coming days, the Philadelphia 76ers find themselves in a situation where they have assembled a roster of top talent. However, despite their regular-season success, the team has faced disappointment in the playoffs, being eliminated in the second round in five of the past six seasons and in the first round in the other campaign.
The addition of Oubre is a significant step towards addressing this playoff frustration and strengthening the 76ers’ chances of contending for an NBA championship. With the last title victory dating back to 1983, when Moses Malone and Julius Erving led the team to a sweep of the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals, the city of Philadelphia eagerly anticipates a return to championship glory.
As the 76ers embark on their upcoming campaign, the signing of Kelly Oubre Jr. signifies their determination to assemble a championship-caliber team. With a talented core already in place, the addition of Oubre brings excitement and optimism to the organization and its fans. The path to the NBA championship won’t be easy, but the Philadelphia 76ers are ready to compete at the highest level and make their mark in the league once again.
