As the hours tick away until the NBA’s trade deadline, the Phoenix Suns have reportedly started fielding trade calls on forward Kelly Oubre Jr., The New York Times’ Marc Stein reports.
Phoenix acquired Oubre from the Washington Wizards during the 2018-’19 season, hoping to the young forward would develop and turn into a core piece of their future. Now, in the midst of a career season, the Suns are reportedly exploring flipping Oubre.
The 24-year-old stepped into a starting role this season with the Suns. Oubre has started in all 48 games and is averaging 18.5 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game. He’s shown nice range from deep with a 34.6% three-point rate and has improved his overall game in Phoenix.
The Suns currently sit five games back for the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference. However, the team played without DeAndre Ayton for 25 games and he is now starting to find his rhythm after returning from his suspension.
Phoenix could view moving Oubre as a move that can net them a veteran to pair with Ayton and Devin Booker, to then potentially compete for a playoff spot this season.