The Sixers will see a familiar face tonight. Don’t expect a friendly reunion.
Jared McCain is back in Philadelphia for the first time since being dealt to the Thunder at last month’s deadline. And if his former teammates know anything, it’s that he’s not coming in quietly.
“Jared McCain’s about to try to come kill us,” Trendon Watford said, via Gina Mizell of the Philadelphia Inquirer. “We know how that’s about to go.”
McCain looked like an All-Rookie candidate last season before injuries cut things short after 23 games. After knee and thumb surgeries, he struggled to carve out a consistent role in a crowded Sixers backcourt and even spent a brief time in the G League.
President of basketball operations Daryl Morey later described the deal as “selling high,” with Philadelphia landing a package of draft picks, including a 2026 first-rounder originally from Houston. The move also helped the Sixers duck the luxury tax.
Since arriving in Oklahoma City, McCain has looked like a natural fit. He’s averaging 12.3 points off the bench and shooting 44 percent from three for the defending champs.
His former teammates are not surprised.
“That’s our dog,” VJ Edgecombe said. “Everyone still [loves] Jared. I’m pretty sure it’s vice versa. I’m just happy to see him hooping.”
Barlow Injury Adds To List
The injury report didn’t get any shorter over the weekend.
Dominick Barlow exited Saturday’s game in Utah with a sprained left ankle. Coach Nick Nurse said X-rays were negative, and Barlow was able to walk out without a boot or brace.
He’s listed as doubtful for Monday.
Edgecombe, Bailey Finally Meet
A small subplot, but an interesting one.
Edgecombe and Ace Bailey, who the Sixers strongly considered with the No. 3 pick, met for the first time as pros on Saturday.
Philadelphia has to feel good about how it played out. Edgecombe is putting together a strong rookie season, while Bailey has started to come on as his role has grown.
There was no behind-the-scenes drama leading into draft night.
“I let him be. He let me be,” Edgecombe said. “And we just congratulated each other on draft night.”
Embiid Trending In Right Direction
There’s still no return date, but there is at least some progress.
Joel Embiid will miss another game with a right oblique strain. He hasn’t played since Feb. 26 and has appeared in 33 games this season.
According to The Athletic’s Tony Jones, Embiid has resumed on-court workouts. He’s still dealing with some pain, but there have been no setbacks.
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