Why the 76ers Moved on from Jared McCain - and Why It Makes More Sense Than You Think
The Philadelphia 76ers made waves ahead of the trade deadline by parting ways with Jared McCain, sending the promising young guard to the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for draft capital. On the surface, it looked like a head-scratcher - especially after President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey admitted the move was made with the expectation of a follow-up deal that never materialized.
But while that admission raised eyebrows, it misses the bigger picture. The McCain trade wasn’t just about setting the table for another move that didn’t happen. It was about timing, value, and a franchise adjusting to its evolving priorities.
Why McCain Became the Odd Man Out
McCain showed flashes of real potential, and there’s no doubt he could develop into a solid NBA contributor. But the 76ers, as currently constructed, weren’t in a position to give him the developmental runway he needed. Injuries had already slowed his progress, and with the team shifting gears toward a new core, McCain’s role - both now and in the near future - had quietly diminished.
The emergence of VJ Edgecombe as a foundational piece changed the calculus. Edgecombe has quickly become a centerpiece for Philadelphia’s future, and his presence made McCain more of a luxury than a necessity. In a league where roster spots and minutes are currency, the Sixers couldn’t afford to let McCain’s value stagnate on the bench.
The Value Play
This wasn’t a case of the Sixers giving up too early. It was a calculated decision to move a young asset while his value was still strong. McCain, still on his rookie-scale contract, had just enough shine to draw interest - and Oklahoma City, with its deep asset pool and flexible roster, made for an ideal trade partner.
The Thunder can afford to take a flier on McCain. Their depth and positional versatility allow them to absorb overlaps and give him a real shot at carving out a role. For Philly, the return - future draft capital - may not set off fireworks today, but it positions them to be players in future deals or to restock the cupboard in a meaningful way.
Two Things Can Be True
Yes, the Sixers pulled the plug on McCain earlier than some expected. And yes, they got solid value in return. Those two things aren’t mutually exclusive.
Would it have been nice to see McCain develop in Philly? Sure.
But the front office wasn’t willing to risk watching his trade value dip due to limited minutes and a shrinking role. By acting now, they ensured they got something in return - and in this league, asset management is everything.
Looking Ahead
It’s understandable that some fans are frustrated. Trading away a young guard with upside - especially without a follow-up move - can be tough to swallow.
But the Sixers are playing a longer game. They’ve hitched their wagon to Edgecombe, and they’re clearly thinking about how to build around him, not just for the rest of this season, but for the seasons to come.
The McCain trade might not feel great in the moment, but given the Sixers’ current trajectory, it’s a move that aligns with a broader vision. One that’s focused on flexibility, future moves, and building a roster that can compete - not just survive.