SAN ANTONIO, TX –

The Oklahoma City Thunder acquired guard Jared McCain from the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for a 2026 first-round draft pick and three second-round picks, Executive Vice President and General Manager Sam Presti announced Tuesday.

McCain was selected 16th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft and has appeared in 60 career games (nine starts), averaging 10.0 points, 2.2 rebounds and 2.0 assists in 20.2 minutes per game. He shot 38.3% from three as a rookie, earned Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month honors in October/November 2024, and was named a 2025 NBA Rising Star.

Jaylin Williams, Kenrich Williams react to McCain addition

Thunder players believe McCain’s shooting and personality will translate quickly in Oklahoma City.

“Great player, of course. Great shooter,” Jaylin Williams said. “I know from last season he was one of the front-runner rookies. He’s a fun guy to be around, and I’m sure he’s going to fit right in.”

Kenrich Williams highlighted McCain’s scoring ability.

“I think he’ll bring some shooting to the team,” Williams said. “I know he’s a scorer as well, so he’ll fit right in with what we do. Excited to have him.”

Why Oklahoma City made the move

The Thunder continue to leverage their deep collection of draft assets to acquire young, cost-controlled talent as the roster becomes more expensive in future seasons.

McCain is owed $4.2 million this season, $4.4 million next year and $6.7 million in 2027–28, with the final two seasons being team options. That contract structure aligns with Oklahoma City’s long-term salary planning while adding an immediate offensive option.

The move also comes at a critical time, with injuries testing the Thunder’s depth and increasing the need for an additional on-ball scorer who can create and make shots.

Betting on McCain’s upside

Although McCain’s efficiency dipped this season following a knee injury that cut short his rookie year, Oklahoma City is betting on the version of McCain seen early in his career. In his first 23 NBA games, McCain averaged 15.3 points while shooting 38.3% from three and posting strong on-court impact numbers.

If McCain regains that form, the trade could pay dividends both this season and deep into the Thunder’s championship window.

Plumlee waived to create roster flexibility

In a related move, the Thunder waived center Mason Plumlee, who was acquired earlier this month from Charlotte, creating roster flexibility following the McCain trade.