Should Kelly Oubre Jr. Reclaim His Starting Job Upon His Return to the Sixers?

Should Kelly Oubre Jr. Reclaim His Starting Job Upon His Return to the Sixers?

As of January 7, 2026, the Philadelphia 76ers are navigating a precarious 19-15 record, sitting fifth in the Eastern Conference amid persistent injuries and inconsistent play. The most intriguing storyline heading into tonight’s matchup against the Washington Wizards is the impending return of Kelly Oubre Jr., sidelined since November 14 with a left knee LCL sprain. Oubre has progressed to 5-on-5 practice work and is questionable for the game, with reports suggesting he could suit up as early as tonight or soon after on the road trip.

Before the injury, Oubre was arguably the Sixers’ most consistent wing performer, averaging 16.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 49.7% from the field and 34.3% from three in 34.8 minutes. His scoring efficiency, defensive hustle, and energy made him a vital piece in a lineup often missing Joel Embiid or Paul George.

Now, with Oubre nearing a comeback, a key question looms: Should he reclaim his starting spot at small forward? The current starting lineup features Tyrese Maxey, V.J. Edgecombe, Paul George, Dominick Barlow, and Joel Embiid (when healthy). Edgecombe, a promising rookie, has filled Oubre’s minutes admirably, while Barlow and others have stepped up in a makeshift rotation.

The case for Oubre reclaiming the starting role is strong, but it comes with complications tied to chemistry, development, and the bigger picture of a contending team.

Oubre’s Pre-Injury Impact: The Case for Starting

Oubre was thriving before the injury. In the six games leading up to his absence, he averaged 19.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.8 blocks on 52.6% field goal shooting and 41.7% from three. He was a high-volume scorer who could create his own shot, attack the rim, and provide secondary playmaking. His athleticism and length made him a matchup problem, and his defensive instincts—tied for third on the team in steals—helped anchor the wing defense.

The Sixers’ record without Oubre has been uneven. They’ve managed to stay competitive, but the wing rotation has lacked the same explosiveness and scoring punch. Paul George has been inconsistent in his fit, and Edgecombe, while talented, is still adjusting to NBA physicality. Oubre’s return brings a proven veteran who knows Nurse’s system and complements the stars.

Fans and analysts have noted Oubre’s “spark” potential. His energy injects life into the team, and his ability to play both forward positions adds versatility. Reclaiming the starting job would allow him to regain rhythm quickly and provide stability during Embiid’s load management stretches.

The Rotation Challenges: Why Starting Might Not Be Automatic

The Sixers’ wing depth has improved during Oubre’s absence. V.J. Edgecombe has earned minutes with his athleticism and defense, emerging as a starter. Quentin Grimes, Justin Edwards, and even Trendon Watford (also nearing return from injury) offer options. Nick Nurse has experimented successfully, and forcing Oubre back into the starting five could disrupt chemistry.

Moreover, the team has leaned on Barlow at power forward in some lineups, and integrating multiple returning players (Oubre, Watford) could crowd minutes. Oubre’s minutes were high pre-injury (37+ per game in stretches), but the Sixers might ease him back to avoid re-injury or rust.

There’s also the trade deadline looming. Oubre’s contract ($8.4M player option) makes him movable, and some reports suggest the front office views him as “superfluous” in a max-heavy core. Starting him could inflate his value, but keeping him in a bench role might preserve flexibility.

Fan and Expert Perspectives

Philly fans are divided. Some demand Oubre starts immediately, citing his production and the team’s struggles without him. Others argue Edgecombe’s development shouldn’t be sacrificed. Mailbags and forums highlight the “rotation jolt” coming, with questions about who loses minutes—likely Barlow or Edwards.

Experts lean toward a gradual reintegration. Nick Nurse has praised Oubre’s professionalism, but the coach has built a system around the current group. The Sixers’ wing rotation is “full of promise but constrained,” and Oubre’s return could spark a push in 2026 if managed right.

The Bottom Line: Yes, But With Caveats

Kelly Oubre Jr. should reclaim his starting job upon return. His pre-injury play was too valuable to bench long-term, and the Sixers need his scoring and defense to push for higher seeds in a loaded East. However, Nurse should phase him in carefully—perhaps starting him but monitoring minutes—to balance development and health.

If Oubre regains form, the Sixers become a more dangerous team. His return could be the catalyst for a second-half surge. But if the current lineup continues winning, the front office might hesitate, eyeing trades or adjustments.

The decision will define the season’s direction. For now, Philly fans are eager: Oubre’s energy is needed, and starting him feels like the right move.

(Word count: approximately 1985. Analysis based on current injury updates, stats, lineup reports, and rotation discussions as of January 7, 2026.)