PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia 76ers are continuing to work Kelly Oubre Jr. back into their routine following his 11-game absence due to a fractured rib injury.
Oubre has played three games. Following an easy 146-101 win over the Washington Wizards on Monday, coach Nick Nurse gave his thoughts on what he has seen from the bouncy forward out of Kansas.
“I thought of the three, this one was probably third, maybe, but just again, I think that he really provides some energy up the floor,” Nurse said. “He’s one of our top cutters. You notice he gets that back door cut or double team cut once or twice a game and those are big and when they’re loading up on the ball, and you get a dunk at the basket. I thought he did a lot of things.”
In 17:33 off the bench on Monday, Oubre had seven points and five rebounds. He shot 3-for-8 from the floor and he appeared to force some things, but he played well in this one.
“He maybe forced a couple shots early in the first half a little quick, but other than that, again, what he brings in overall athleticism, speed, and cutting, is good,” Nurse added. “I think he looks like he’s in shape and in rhythm and OK.”
Nurse alluded to it, but Oubre’s athleticism and his ability to produce on both ends of the floor is another piece the Sixers can use.
“He’s looking good,” Robert Covington added. “He’s still building up and it gives Nick another niche to play around with. He looks really good and I’m glad that we got him back and he did really well in his recovery. He took it very seriously and this training staff and everyone was on it so it feels good to have him back and he looks really good.”
The Sixers move on to face the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday on the road.
[lawrence-related id=87532,87527,87524]