76ers' Jared McCain Out for Season Opener Due to Thumb Injury
The Philadelphia 76ers have been dealt a blow as guard Jared McCain is set to miss the start of the 2025-26 season due to a thumb injury. The 2024 NBA draft pick has been a promising addition to the team, but his recovery will determine his role in the season opener against the Boston Celtics on October 22, 2025.
McCain, who was drafted 16th overall by the 76ers in the 2024 draft, has shown great potential in his rookie season. He played in 23 games, starting in 8 of them, and averaged an impressive 15.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. The guard scored double-digit points in 15 of those games, including a career-high 34 points against the Cavaliers on November 13, 2024.
Last week, McCain suffered a UCL tear in his right thumb. He underwent surgery to repair the injury on Tuesday, October 1, 2025. The 76ers have scheduled a re-evaluation for him in four weeks to assess his recovery progress. If he recovers in time, McCain is likely to start at the guard position in the season opener against the Celtics. However, his role will depend on his recovery status closer to the game.
The 76ers' season opener is scheduled for Wednesday, October 22, 2025, and the team will be hoping for McCain's swift recovery. His presence and performance have been crucial to the team's success, and his absence, even for a short period, could impact their starting lineup and strategy. The team and fans alike will be eagerly awaiting his re-evaluation in four weeks to determine his availability for the season opener.