An integral part of the life of an NBA player, trade rumors can sometimes influence the minds of some. Kelly Oubre initially preferred to answer it on the field, before sending a straightforward sentence as a reaction to his potential departure.
If the Warriors’ schedule was rather busy at the start of the season, it has proven to be much more affordable in recent days. After easily disposing of the last Timberwolves of the Western Conference two days earlier, the Californians once again found Ryan Saunders’ troops at the Chase Center on the night of Wednesday to Thursday.
The meeting did not offer a surprise result, with a second success for Dubs which took shape in the 2nd quarter (123-111). Steph Curry lacking in address, it was his usual lieutenants who took over, and in particular Kelly Oubre Jr. (20 points, 9 rebounds). The rookie of the offseason therefore wore a happy face in a post-match press conference.
Just being able to lead the attack, play with the guys and continuously bring energy with the second unit is an incredible place for me. Just being able to run, take my time and find my rhythm.
Still a member of the five major, the rear however rose in temperature alongside the substitutes, and therefore could greatly contribute to the victory of his team. Like him, Steve Kerr was obviously delighted by the performance of his player after the meeting, but focused his speech on the context in which the Tsunami Papi was evolving.
I say that to my players all the time, and that’s what I said to Kelly: this is when you really deserve your salary. The basketball part is the easy part. But having to leave your family behind for road trips, being hurt, being booed, or reading your name in trade rumors, it’s not easy.
This outing was indeed the first in Oubre since the appearance of his name in transfer noises. A situation which can be explained by his delicate beginnings on the spot, but which could also plunge him a little more into difficulty. Instead, the former Suns knew how to use it as motivation, which his coach particularly appreciated.
Kelly really made me proud. He handled it really well… He came in and signed one of his best games with us. He really was the source of our good face in the second quarter.
The main interested party was obviously also launched on the thorny subject by the journalists who were able to question him. And his response, although concise, could not be clearer as to his intentions.
I am a Warriors. Let’s go get that fucking ring.
The message has passed, including to its leaders. The latter, if they persist in wanting to recruit a player to replace him, will have to find a profile as eager to evolve under the colors of the franchise, and with such important ambitions. And given the speech delivered by Oubre, the task looks complicated.
It is therefore not a start to the season far removed from expectations that will curb Kelly Oubre Jr.’s desire to shine and succeed in the Bay. If he continues matches like this, there is no doubt that his status will be quickly reconsidered by the Warriors’ front office.
