Philadelphia 76ers guard Jared McCain is navigating a challenging season after a knee injury disrupted his promising rookie campaign. In the 2024-25 season, McCain showcased his skills with a three-point shooting percentage of 38.3% before facing a setback due to a meniscus tear in his left knee. This injury forced him to miss the remainder of the season after only 23 appearances.
Struggles and Recovery
After an extensive recovery period, McCain made his return to the court in November, nearly 11 months post-injury. However, the comeback has not been easy. Currently, he is shooting at just 31.9% from beyond the arc this season, with a particularly rough patch where he has averaged only 26.3% over the last seven games.
Mental Fortitude
Despite these struggles, McCain remains optimistic about regaining his rhythm. He shared his insights during a shootaround in Orlando, expressing the mental challenges he faces. “You try and go back to figure out whatever is wrong, but sometimes you don’t got to change too much,” he explained. McCain emphasized the importance of staying true to his game and continuing to work on his skills.
The Importance of Team Play
Recognizing the need to contribute beyond scoring, McCain is committed to affecting the game positively. He stated that focusing on defensive impact and team dynamics is essential during this phase of his recovery. “Just trying to affect the game on the defensive end, and make sure the team is doing well when you’re in the game,” he noted.
- Season Stats:
- Three-point shooting: 31.9%
- Last seven games: 26.3%
- Games played before injury: 23
- Key Dates:
- Injury occurred: 2024-25 season
- Return to court: November 2025
As McCain continues his journey back to form, his focus remains on growth and learning. He believes that with persistent effort and self-reflection, he will return to his former shooting prowess and fulfill his potential within the Philadelphia 76ers. The team is counting on him to regain his impact and contribute significantly as they progress through the season.
