Doing things out of the box has been this iteration’s motto as the Oklahoma City Thunder make one final tune-up in their quest to become back-to-back NBA champions. They acquired Jared McCain in a buy-low deal from the Philadelphia 76ers.
Thunder Acquire Jared McCain From 76ers
Three-Point Shooting
Oklahoma City’s shooting inconsistencies are well-documented, and McCain brings much-needed shooting to the Thunder, complementing their big three.
McCain is a career 38% three-point shooter with a quick release, who can be utilized in a multitude of ways: off DHOs, off-screens, off the catch, and as a movement shooter.
Two Key Areas Jared McCain will help the Thunder ⬇️⬇️1. Three-Point Shooting• Provides immediate spacing — has a lightning quick release (off-screens, off the catch, as a movement shooter, and his relocation ability)
Shot 38.3% from 3 on 5.8 attempts as a rookie. Shooting 37.8% overall from 3 on 3.2 attempts this season
Shot 43.9% on Catch-and-Shoot 3s as a rookie + is shooting 40.3% on Catch-and-Shoot 3s this season
McCain adds needed floor spacing to a Thunder team that lacks true snipers outside of Isaiah Joe — ranking 14th in three-point percentage at 36% percent from deep.
Secondary Creation + Playmaking
The lack of consistent secondary creation has led to deficiencies in the Thunder’s half-court offense.
McCain immediately strengthens the depth of the backcourt, providing adequate shot-making and secondary playmaking with the upside for more, alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Ajay Mitchell, and Aaron Wiggins.
2. Upside in Secondary Creation• Averaged 15.3 PPG on 46/38/87 shooting splits in 23 games as a rookie (before season-ending meniscus injury)
The Thunder have sorely needed another ball-handler who can run the offense when Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Ajay Mitchell aren’t on the floor. McCain adds juice to the Thunder’s second unit, who can act as the primary ball handler, especially in pick-and-roll situations, producing an efficient 1.15 points per possession. Adding another reliable ball-handler alleviates pressure off of Jalen Williams, Ajay Mitchell, and Chet Holmgren.
Connective playmaking (especially with the bench lineups)
Adding to his ability to play both on and off the ball, McCain’s versatility will make him pluggable across multiple lineups.
While McCain likely won’t fill those gaps immediately, the goal is for him to help address them in the long term.
Cap Flexibility
As the Thunder’s roster becomes more expensive due to the big three being on max deals, the Thunder’s way of maintaining financial flexibility moving forward will be to rely on cost-controlled contracts. The Thunder manages their future cap space by trading for a young, high-upside shooter on a cost-controlled rookie contract.
McCain is under contract for two more years following the 2025-26 season, for a total of $11.2 million. $4.2 million for 2025-26, with team options for $4.4 million in 2026-27 and $6.8 million in 2027-28.
McCain’s final two years of his rookie contract are team options. This gives the Thunder flexibility, allowing them to retain young talent at a low cost or to go a different direction to create additional cap space if needed.
The Thunder went with a buy-low, high-reward move at the deadline. Acquiring McCain from the Sixers for most likely a late 2026 first-round pick and three second-round picks. Many are calling this a steal for OKC, which is a Sam Presti special.
Main Image: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
