Kelly Oubre Jr. starts Pacers season opener
Oubre Jr. began the 2026‑27 season as a starter for the Indiana Pacers, playing 28 minutes and scoring four points in the opening game.
Key points
- Oubre Jr. joined the Pacers in the offseason with Larry Nance Jr. and Braden Smith.
- He started the season opener, logging 28 minutes, four points, and two rebounds.
- When Andrew Nembhard was ruled out, Oubre was moved into the starting lineup.
- For Friday’s game, Jarace Walker will replace Oubre in the first unit, potentially reducing his minutes to the lower 20s.
Kelly Oubre Jr. joined the Indiana Pacers during the offseason, arriving with Larry Nance Jr. and Braden Smith as part of the roster changes described in the team’s post‑2025‑2026 season recap.
Opening Night Contribution
Oubre saw 28 minutes as a starter in the Pacers’ season opener and finished with four points and two rebounds, according to the game report for the 2026‑27 opener.
Monday Start Due to Injury
When Andrew Nembhard (neck/back) was ruled out Monday, Oubre was placed in the starting five for that game.
Friday Lineup Adjustment
For Friday’s matchup, Jarace Walker will replace Oubre in the first unit, and Oubre’s playing time may be reduced to the lower 20s, as noted in the latest lineup update.
Your questions, answered
How did Kelly Oubre Jr. perform in the Pacers season opener?
He started, played 28 minutes, and finished with four points and two rebounds.
Why was Oubre Jr. placed in the starting lineup on Monday?
Andrew Nembhard was ruled out with a neck/back injury, prompting Oubre to start.
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