The Los Angeles Lakers are expected to meet with veteran swingman Kelly Oubre Jr. as NBA free agency opens, according to a report from Yahoo Sports’ Kelly Iko.
Oubre, 30, has lined up discussions with the Philadelphia 76ers, Indiana Pacers, Portland Trail Blazers and Lakers, among other suitors. The session with Los Angeles comes as the franchise reshapes its roster following LeBron James’ decision to depart after eight seasons.
Eleventh NBA season ends on a high note
The 6-foot-7 wing completed his 11th year in the league and third with Philadelphia, averaging 36% from three-point range—an improvement from 29% two seasons earlier. Health remained a concern; Oubre appeared in 50 games this past campaign and 60 the year before.
Despite the limited availability, he played a key role in the 76ers’ run to the Eastern Conference semifinals, earning praise for his defensive work against Jaylen Brown as Philadelphia rallied from a 3-1 series deficit.
Lakers’ offseason priorities
With James gone, president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka is building around Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. Los Angeles has also shown interest in free-agent guard Quentin Grimes and is exploring options at center, including Jalen Duren, Sandro Mamukelashvili and Mitchell Robinson. Duren, a restricted free agent, is reportedly eyeing a sign-and-trade to the Sacramento Kings.
Even without James, the Lakers still project roughly $52 million in cap space—a figure that already accounts for Reaves’ hold—and they retain the $9.4 million mid-level exception.
Source: LakersNation.com
