Oklahoma City Thunder's Jared McCain: Rising Star Amidst Change
"I'm quite confident we were selling high" 😐
— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) February 6, 2026
Daryl Morey explains why the Sixers pulled the trigger on trading the No. 16 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Jared McCain. pic.twitter.com/DM6qJyzmPk
Jared McCain’s journey from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Oklahoma City Thunder has been nothing short of transformative. The young guard, who celebrated his 22nd birthday in a city he never expected to call home, has embraced his new role with open arms. Though the trade from the 76ers, orchestrated by Daryl Morey, was a surprise, McCain has quickly become a vital piece of the Thunder's puzzle, particularly as injuries have reshaped the team's lineup.
In the last four games, McCain has been on a roll, averaging 14.0 points while shooting an impressive 50% from the field and from beyond the arc. His contributions have been crucial, especially in a recent win against the Brooklyn Nets where he scored a season-high 21 points. Against the Cleveland Cavaliers, McCain added 10 points, including two key three-pointers, along with three rebounds and a steal, helping the Thunder secure a 121-113 victory.
With All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and other key players like Jalen Williams, Ajay Mitchell, and Alex Caruso sidelined, Isaiah Joe stepped into the starting lineup. Meanwhile, McCain and Jaylin Williams combined for a solid 20 points off the bench. Joe was a standout with 22 points, including six three-pointers and a career-high five steals, guiding the Thunder past a formidable Cavs lineup featuring stars like Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and James Harden.
Joe highlighted McCain's impact on the Thunder's offensive creativity, noting how his presence opens up the floor. “It puts the defense in a dilemma to help or not, and it kind of creates driving lanes,” Joe explained. The added pressure on defenses has allowed players like Lu Dort, J-Will, and Chet Holmgren to find open shots, even when the defense tightens up.
Joe's own shooting has been stellar, hitting 50.8% from deep in February, and 18-of-31 in the last four games. The Thunder’s ability to adapt without some of their top scorers has been impressive, winning four of their last five games. Meanwhile, the 76ers have struggled, going 1-4 since the trade.
From Philadelphia’s perspective, Daryl Morey saw trading McCain as a strategic move, acquiring a 2026 first-round pick and two future second-round picks. With rookie VJ Edgecombe rising, Morey believed it was the right time to make the move. “I'm quite confident we were selling high,” Morey stated, expressing his belief that the trade would benefit the 76ers in the long run.
McCain, however, was caught off guard by the trade, learning about it unexpectedly while on the team bus. Despite the initial shock, he quickly adjusted, maintaining his confidence and focusing on his new opportunity with the Thunder.
“I allow myself to feel all the emotions. It's natural,” McCain shared, emphasizing his resilience and adaptability.
As the Thunder prepare to face the Raptors on Tuesday, McCain’s journey continues to unfold. His ability to shine amidst change is a testament to his talent and determination, making him a player to watch as the season progresses.