One month after the Philadelphia 76ers traded Jared McCain to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the second-year guard has thrived, averaging 12.5 points in 20 minutes over 11 games. The move faces growing criticism as the 76ers struggle, prompting reactions from fans, players, and McCain himself.
In the trade reported last month, the 76ers received a 2026 late first-round pick from Houston and three second-round picks (2027 most favorable of HOU/IND/MIA/OKC; 2028 from MIL and OKC) for McCain, who had averaged 6.6 points in limited minutes this season following injuries.
With the Thunder, McCain has boosted to a 59.2 effective field-goal percentage, including three 20+ point games against Chicago and Denver. Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said, “We think he’s got some runway to develop and that’s exciting. But at the same time, we think he has skills that can strengthen our team right now.”
Sixers GM Daryl Morey called it 'selling high,' noting aggressive offers and confidence in the return's value. McCain, responding to Morey's comments after a brief trade call, said, "He's like that, though. I don't think he meant any harm from it. I just kind of take it as: That's his job."
Former teammate Tyrese Maxey voiced mixed feelings after a 40-point loss to San Antonio—the third such in franchise history: "I ain't going to lie and say I don't miss Jared [McCain]. But I'm happy for him. I watch him in OKC and hope he does well every single night, except for when he plays us."
Pre-deadline, Joel Embiid had hoped for additions, but the 76ers prioritized avoiding the luxury tax under owner Josh Harris, also salary-dumping Eric Gordon. Morey shopped the picks but made no further deals, despite interest in players like Kawhi Leonard.