Since the end of last season, the Washington Wizards had two decisions to make at the small forward decision. To some, Otto Porter Jr. was not worth the four-year, $106.5 million max contract he received, but the team had few other options if they wanted to spend money past the NBA defined salary cap. In my opinion, paying Porter was a near no-brainer because 21-year old Kelly Oubre Jr. did not seem completely ready to start at small forward against the likes of LeBron James and (at the time) Gordon Hayward. Despite that, the second decision the Wizards made, picking up Oubre's fourth-year option on his rookie scale deal, was a true no-brainer as he continues to develop and will provide a cheap body with money already tight. Despite the 120-117 loss to the Golden State Warriors on Friday, Washington was able to demonstrate that both Porter and Oubre's games are continuing to evolve.
Teams Will Have To Learn Not To Leave Porter Open
One would think that teams would play tight against a wing that shot 43.4 percent from three last season, but on multiple occasions was Porter the benefactor of drive and kicks or tap out offensive rebounds. As a result, he had a career-high 7 three-pointers against the Warriors.
Porter Showing His New Tricks
A theme during his press conference over the summer was the Washington brass of Ted Leonsis, Ernie Grunfeld, and Scott Brooks talking about how the Georgetown star still has room to grow further. Some of that was on display against Golden State as he adjusted against double teams as well as converted in isolation situations with a step back and off-the-dribble move.
Still Making All The Hustle Plays
When some players get a nine-figure contract, they may start to take for granted the gritty part of the game such as hustling after 50-50 balls. Porter did not as he continues to consistently be around the ball in key situations. Despite getting his shot blocked early, Porter stayed with it and got rewarded with an uncontested mid-range jumper. Late in the game, he helped secure an offensive rebound leading to a Jodie Meeks three-pointer that gave the Wizards a chance late.
It Makes Some Sense To Leave Oubre Open, But He Will Now Make You Pay
Despite being a highly touted shooter coming out of college, Oubre shot a miserable 28.7 percent from behind the arc in his second year. After an offseason of completing his tweaked shot mechanics with trainer Drew Hanlen, the lanky wing is converting at a higher clip. The third-year player made his first 4 three-pointers against Golden State. Once the Warriors started closing out on Oubre harder, he made adjustments by side-stepping as well as driving to the hoop.
Staying A Force On Defense
Scott Brooks has made clear that Oubre's biggest contribution to the team is defense and any offensive production is considered gravy. Whether it was picking up a charge to trigger Draymond Green or harassing Kevin Durant, Oubre continues to be a useful weapon for Washington.
