The Philadelphia 76ers and Chicago Bulls are currently the only two undefeated teams remaining in the Eastern Conference. Joel Embiid is back on the court, although he is limited by a minutes restriction. Stars Paul George and Jared McCain are yet to make their season debuts, so the 76ers are expected to only get better.
McCain averaged 15.3 points on efficient shooting during his rookie season, although a torn meniscus shortened his season. This summer, he faced a setback, suffering an injury to his thumb.
He is expected to return sometime in early November, although he could make his season debut earlier than initially thought.
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – DECEMBER 06: Jared McCain #20 of the Philadelphia 76ers smiles during a time out during the second half against the Orlando Magic at the Wells Fargo Center on December 06, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
Philadelphia 76ers Get Injury Update
For the last three seasons, the 76ers have been marred by injuries. While Embiid is clearly not fully healthy, the team looks good to start the season, and there is hope he will remain on the court.
McCain, meanwhile, is not quite the impact player Embiid is, although he can play a key role on the team. Recently, McCain was seen getting shots up.
“He seems to have moved on to the ‘playing brace’ on his right hand,” reported team insider Adam Aaronson on October 27th. “Update on McCain likely coming in the next week or so.”
If McCain can rush his recovery, he will still miss the next four games. While the team is excited to have him back on the court, they boast enough backcourt depth to slowly work him back into the offense.
Even without George, who could come back any day now, the 76ers are on the rise, finally playing their part as a contender early in the season.
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – DECEMBER 04: Jared McCain #20 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during a game against the Orlando Magic at the Wells Fargo Center on December 04, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
Jared McCain to Round Out Young Backcourt
Tyrese Maxey, through two games, looks like one of the best guards in the NBA. VJ Edgecombe, the rookie shooting guard, looks like a ROTY frontrunner.
Last season, McCain was easily the best player in his draft class before injuries cut his season short. With McCain serving as a sixth man while Maxey and Edgecombe start, the Sixers can boast one of the best young backcourts in the entire NBA.
Of course, Philadelphia’s success starts and ends with Embiid. If he can’t get to near full strength, or worse, re-injures himself, then any early-season efforts are for naught.
Between Maxey, Edgecombe, and McCain, the Sixers have a very bright future. However, they are still heavily invested in their present and expect a degree of success this season.
There isn’t a ton of time to wait around.
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