Sixers Trade Jared McCain to Thunder for Draft Picks
The Philadelphia 76ers have traded Jared McCain to the Oklahoma City Thunder in a deal highlighting McCain’s potential and the Sixers’ strategic planning. This trade involves significant draft picks, reshaping both teams’ futures.
Details of the Trade
The Sixers received the following in exchange for McCain:
- Houston’s 2026 first-round pick (controlled by the Thunder)
- Three second-round picks:
- The Thunder’s own 2028 second-round pick
- Milwaukee’s 2028 second-round pick
- A 2027 selection (the second-most favorable among the Thunder, Rockets, Pacers, and Heat)
Background on Jared McCain
McCain, a guard from Duke, was selected 16th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft. At 22 years old, he showed promise during his rookie season, averaging 15.3 points, 2.6 assists, and 2.4 rebounds in 23 games, with shooting splits of .460/.383/.875.
Unfortunately, his career faced setbacks due to injuries. He underwent season-ending knee surgery in the 2024/25 season and struggled with a thumb ligament injury during the current season.
Current Performance
As of now, McCain has not returned to his rookie form. He is averaging 6.6 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 37 games, with shooting percentages of .385/.378/.880.
Implications for the Sixers and Thunder
The Sixers seem to have considered McCain a luxury rather than a necessity. With All-Star Tyrese Maxey and rookie VJ Edgecombe performing well, McCain’s smaller stature made it challenging to integrate him alongside them on the court.
This trade creates a traded player exception worth $4,221,360 for the Sixers. They aim to manage their salary cap strategically, especially in light of Paul George’s suspension and potential tax considerations.
Thunder’s Perspective
The Oklahoma City Thunder have an abundance of future first-round picks. They see potential in McCain, hoping he can regain his pre-injury form. His rookie scale contract lasts for two more years, totaling $11.2 million.
Additionally, Thunder forward Ousmane Dieng may be included in another transaction, possibly being traded to the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for Mason Plumlee. This move would aid the Thunder in maintaining their financial flexibility.
Both teams are reshaping their rosters with this trade, marking a significant moment in the 2025 NBA season.
