As the Atlanta Hawks selected Kelly Oubre Jr. with the 15th pick in the NBA draft, Wizards' fans anxiously awaited their team's pick at 19. It was then announced that Oubre would be traded to the Wizards for their 19th and two future second-round picks. The 6'6 small forward averaged 9.3 points and 5.0 rebounds per game in his freshman year at Kansas. This trade was unexpected, since the Wizards were reported to address their holes at stretch four and back up point guard, but Oubre will play both shooting guard and small forward with the expected departure of Paul Pierce.
In some mock drafts, Oubre was predicted to be a lottery pick, which speaks for his tremendous upside and potential. Although he isn't a freakish athlete, his game is very smooth and efficient. Oubre's ability to shoot from deep is what the Wizards will benefit from immediately. He finished shooting 36 percent last season from beyond the arc. John Wall will gel immediately with Oubre as he will look to penetrate and kick quite often to the former Jayhawk as well as get out on the fast break for quick and easy scores.
Oubre is definitely still a work in progress offensively and defensively. Offensively, he needs to work on his ball handling and creating his own shot, which will come with experience. Defensively, he has the tools and potential to be a great defender, but small forwards in the NBA are some of the most athletic the league has to offer. He improved tremendously from when he first arrived at Kansas, so there is promise he will only continue to improve.
Overall, the Wizards drafted a player that if developed correctly, can be a very good player in the NBA. His ability to shoot from deep will be a key piece in helping the Wizards take the next step to contend for an NBA title.