Since joining the Oklahoma City Thunder just before the February 5 trade deadline, Jared McCain has quickly carved out a niche as a key contributor in Mark Daigneault's system. His smooth shooting-hitting an impressive 47.8 percent from beyond the arc since his arrival-has been a revelation. Not only has McCain boosted his own profile, but he's also had a positive impact on teammates like Isaiah Joe.
Despite McCain's impressive play and rising stock, NBA insider Brian Windhorst recently expressed skepticism about McCain's role in the Thunder's playoff rotation. On Monday's edition of The Hoop Collective Podcast, Windhorst praised the undermanned Thunder for their 121-113 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers, highlighting McCain's significant contributions off the bench.
Windhorst noted, "[Jared McCain is] another guy where I don't think he is gonna get minutes in every playoff game, [but] that sucker was out there getting hands on balls and hitting threes."
In the game against the Cavs, McCain posted 10 points, three rebounds, one assist, and one steal, shooting 66.7 percent from three-point range. Since joining the Thunder, he's averaged a solid 11.3 points and 3.2 rebounds on 47.9 percent shooting overall.
While McCain's performance has earned him praise from fans, analysts, and the coaching staff, Windhorst remains cautious about his playoff impact. This isn't a knock on McCain; it's more about the Thunder's depth.
Currently, McCain is logging 18.7 minutes per game. He's making the most of his time, but these minutes might shrink once key players like Ajay Mitchell and MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander return from injuries.
As the postseason approaches, rotations typically tighten to about eight players. Given that the Thunder are essentially running back the same roster that captured last year's championship, it's likely Coach Daigneault will stick with the core eight-man unit from 2025. This means McCain could find himself on the outside looking in during the playoffs.