Kelly Oubre Jr.’s run with the Philadelphia 76ers has already been impressive, but this season he’s elevated his game even further. With the 30‑year‑old wing set to hit free agency this summer, the Charlotte Hornets would be wise to explore the possibility of a reunion.
Oubre, an 11‑year veteran, spent two seasons in Charlotte from 2021 to 2023. His 2022‑23 campaign was one of the best of his career, averaging over 20 points per game while carrying a significant offensive load.
At the time, the Hornets were deep in a youth‑focused rebuild and had just drafted Brandon Miller, creating a crowded wing rotation. Re‑signing Oubre simply didn’t fit the timeline.
But circumstances have shifted. With Charlotte’s competitive window beginning to open, Oubre’s scoring punch, defensive versatility, and veteran presence could make him an ideal wing addition this offseason.
Kelly Oubre Jr. is playing his best basketball this year
When the Hornets let Kelly Oubre Jr. walk a few offseasons ago, the belief was that his production was replaceable, as every fan knew what Oubre was. While that may still be true, Oubre has since taken meaningful strides, playing some of the best basketball of his career in his later years.
Despite battling multiple injuries this season, he’s been highly productive. In 50 games, Oubre is averaging 14.1 points on 46.7% shooting, along with 5.0 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.5 blocks across 31.5 minutes. He’s also knocking down a career‑best 36% from three — an encouraging sign for a player once viewed as a streaky shooter.
Defensively, Oubre has shown he can take on primary assignments and impact both ends of the floor. That wasn’t always consistent during his time in Charlotte, but his energy and physicality on defense have become defining traits, which the Hornets could desperately use.
His mentality was on full display after the 76ers’ impressive 111-97 Game 2 win over Boston, a game they won without Joel Embiid. After the game, Oubre highlighted the importance of matching physicality in the postseason:
“We didn’t let them try and overpower us. We just stood our ground. We were just a little more physical in the smartest way possible.”
That emphasis on physicality speaks directly to one of Charlotte’s biggest weaknesses. Philadelphia’s toughness on defense disrupted Boston’s rhythm, and Oubre played a key role in that effort.
3-and-D wings are always great additions
Reliable 3‑and‑D wings are always valuable, and the Hornets will have plenty of options in free agency. But if avoiding getting pushed around is a priority, as it should be, then Oubre Jr. fits the bill. He brings defensive intensity, improved shooting, and a veteran edge that complements Charlotte’s young core.
Jeff Peterson has an important offseason ahead. A reunion with Oubre Jr. should be explored if he wants to get out of Philly.
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