“I’m a defensive-minded first player,” Oubre said. “I take pride in being a two-way athlete. Just not somebody who is a one-dimensional player. So, defense is my first bread and butter that got me where I am today. ... I’m just going to continue to hone in on that and try to be the best defender I can. My goal is definitely first-team All-Defense multiple times in my career, Defensive Player Of The Year, stuff like that.”
One way Oubre can help reach those lofty benchmarks is going one-on-one with
Mikal Bridges everyday in practice. Those two quickly usurped
T.J. Warren and
Josh Jackson as the preferred long-term wing partnership alongside
Booker and Ayton due to their versatile skillsets.
The Stretch Bros, as Oubre playfully nicknamed he and
Bridges, have helped each other progress along the way. Oubre, who has three more years NBA experience than Bridges, picks the latter’s brain because his floor sense is very advanced.
“Hell yeah,” Oubre said of Bridges helping him get better. “We call each other The Stretch Bros because we have long arms. He’s a great defender as well. And he’s very smart, so it’s really good to pick his brain as well. Although we’re the same age, I’ve been in the league longer than him, but his IQ is on another level. So, to be able to learn from somebody like that, to be able to help him through this process, is amazing.”
“My leadership style: I try to remain positive,” Oubre said. “I don’t try to just yell at people, get on them when they mess up. I’d rather help these guys comfortably learn through this whole year. Rookies, anybody else that needs help, but also try to ask them for advice as well. Try to evolve and show them that they’re a leader. So, I just like to encourage and be positive.”