This is still a development year, even considering their push for the 8th seed. Jerebko has played really well, but he's only been here for four games, he's what, 27 years old now? And he has a similar offensive skill set to KO. Kelly has had more than three good games for us in his time here. He's not gonna have to rip minutes out of Jerebko's hands. They'll probably start off on a near even level once KO is totally healthy.
But with Sullinger out for the year, were gonna see a fair amount of KO at the 4 spot I'm sure. He's more natural there anyway. As a true 7 footer with experience, you can put him out there at the 5 as well. He's our best C after Zeller. I know CBS played Jerebko there a couple times the past few games, and I know it worked out, but that was born out of necessity. A lineup that small can only stay successful if it's used sparingly in the right situations. KOs versatility in his ability to play both the 4 and the 5, and his perimeter/ball handling skills make him a good fit for what they're doing with IT. He'll get his minutes, and I think he'll do well with them. This team needs a 3rd scoring option behind Thomas and Bradley, and I think KO is it.
Besides, Stevens has done an excellent job getting the best performance out of his players. We've overachieved both individually and as a group ever since the Rondo trade. KO is 23, Jerebko is 27 and a free agent in a couple of months. We're not winning anything this year, you have to give Olynyk major minutes.