The Philadelphia 76ers are entering their game against the Brooklyn Nets at 7:30 p.m. gravely shorthanded. Philadelphia could be without five of its seven leading scorers, with Paul George listed as questionable due to a sprained right ankle. The 76ers’ depleted roster naturally increases Jared McCann’s offensive responsibility, and it’s just what he needs.
McCain must exploit Brooklyn’s poor defense
The sophomore struggled to find his footing early on, but has come alive as of late, recording 15 points in his last two games. The Nets serve as a quality opportunity for McCain to build on his newfound momentum.
Brooklyn ranks 29th league-wide in defensive rating, allowing 122.8 points per 100 possessions, and for good reason. The Nets’ problematic combination of youth and inadequate point-of-attack defense has prompted almost every opponent to find success offensively. Terance Mann – Brooklyn’s marquee perimeter defender – will likely guard Tyrese Maxey, nullifying the defensive pressure on McCain.
The 21-year-old’s initial struggles stemmed from his limited ball-handling opportunity. The 76ers seldom gave McCain the chance to create off the dribble, as he primarily operated without the ball. Now, with increased minutes and less rust, the guard has found more on-ball success and Brooklyn’s insufficient defense could only allow him to further excel.
Maxey will inherit an unreasonable offensive burden again as Philadelphia will be without Joel Embiid (knee), VJ Edgecombe (calf), Kelly Oubre Jr. (knee) and Trendon Watford (adductor). It’s up to McCain and Quentin Grimes to decrease Maxey’s usage and help motor the offense. Even if McCain doesn’t dominate, the on-ball reps will only benefit him more as he continues to work his way back.
He’s getting there
It’s been an unfortunate 11 months for McCain, whose torn left meniscus concluded his first season on December 14th, 2024. Despite playing 23 games, McCain still finished seventh in Rookie of the Year award voting; a testament to the flashes of offensive brilliance he displayed.
Just when the 21-year-old was on track to enter this season healthy, he suffered a torn UCL in his right thumb on September 25th; causing him to miss the 76ers’ first six games of the year. It took McCain four games to score and his readjustment has been gradual. The sophomore is totaling 5.4 points per game through eight contests this season.
Considering his scoring uptick in his last two performances, McCain will likely fully return to form sooner rather than later. Philadelphia’s recent injury bug has forced Maxey to anchor the offense on a nightly basis and a revamped McCain could be critical in this regard.