INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Pacers filled their most pressing offseason need by signing free-agent swingman Kelly Oubre Jr. to a fully guaranteed two-year, $17 million contract.
The front office targeted additional wing depth after last season’s playoff run. Oubre, 28, averaged 14.1 points and hit a career-best 36 percent from beyond the arc with Philadelphia in 2023-24. His length and defensive versatility give head coach Rick Carlisle another option capable of guarding multiple positions. Team officials have not determined whether he will start or come off the bench, but the deal pushes Indiana close to the NBA’s first tax apron, limiting further spending flexibility.
Celtics
New Boston Celtics center Mitchell Robinson disclosed that he fractured his hand during the NBA Finals after learning his younger brother had been involved in a serious car accident. In a Facebook post, Robinson said he struck his truck in frustration following a FaceTime call in which he saw his brother wearing a neck brace. Despite the injury and ongoing family issues, Robinson appeared in every Finals game and secured a pivotal offensive rebound late in the Celtics’ Game 5 title-clinching win over the San Antonio Spurs.
Sixers
League observers continue to endorse Philadelphia’s blockbuster acquisition of All-Star guard Jaylen Brown. Adam Aaronson of PhillyVoice wrote that Brown supplies dependable shot creation, strengthens perimeter defense and eases the offensive burden on Joel Embiid. Tony Jones of The Athletic highlighted Brown’s durability and three-level scoring as clear upgrades over former target Paul George. While questions remain about Brown’s fit alongside Embiid, consensus around the league is that the 76ers became significantly more threatening once the trade was finalized.
Source: Hoops Wire
