The 76ers would like to fancy themselves as championship contenders, and Jared McCain’s rookie preview should support this theory. Rather than taking a high-upside or developmental prospect, McCain is a high-floor guard who hopes to contribute more immediately. This isn’t dissimilar to Reed Sheppard, who hopes to have an immediate impact on an up-and-coming Rockets team.
Let’s take a look at McCain’s rookie preview for the upcoming season.
NBA Rookie Preview: Jared McCain
Prospect Profile
McCain was the 10th overall prospect in the class of 2023, and he signed with Duke as a blue-chip recruit. McCain’s freshman year was a stellar success as he was the second leading scorer for the Blue Devils. He averaged 14.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. These numbers may not jump off the page, but McCain put up big performances when Duke needed him most. Against Florida State, McCain tied Zion Williamson’s freshman record of 35 points, going 8-11 on three-pointers. In four NCAA tournament games, McCain averaged 21.0 points per game with two 30-plus point performances. McCain was always seen as a solid guard, but this amount of scoring production wasn’t quite expected.
On top of these scoring bursts, McCain showed up every game on the defensive end of the floor. He plays smart and uses his quickness and strength to smother opposing guards. At six-foot-three, McCain isn’t the biggest prospect, but his ability to play a role as a connector guard greatly increased his value.
Team Fit
After the splash signing of Paul George, McCain’s significance as a role player could be even more important. This was a popularly projected pick to the 76ers, and for good reason. McCain is a solid connector guard and was a consistent performer throughout the year. What really contributed to McCain’s rise however was his three-point shooting combined with solid perimeter defense. He shot 41.4 percent from deep on just under six attempts per game. McCain’s ability as a ‘3-and-D’ connector guard draws comparisons to Donte DiVincenzo and former 76er De’Anthony Melton. Both are either a little taller or have more length than McCain, but the roles and playstyles are very similar.
Behind star guard Tyrese Maxey, all the depth is mostly veteran players. Kyle Lowry, Eric Gordon, and even Reggie Jackson are all solid players, but definitely past their prime. McCain could slot in nicely with the second unit and can fit in a variety of lineups with his ability to play both guard spots. Lastly, everyone knows the star of the show in Philly is former MVP big man, Joel Embiid. The 76ers have always valued floor spacing and three-point shooting around Embiid. McCain has a chance as a rookie to be one of the best perimeter shooters on the roster, which clearly supports his chances at significant minutes.
Predictions
It’s usually not the safe bet to count on a rookie making significant impacts on a championship-contending team. However, I do think McCain will work his way into meaningful playing time for an older 76ers roster. This is especially true should the injury bug impact any guards or wings that project to be in the rotation. As far as accolades go, I think McCain should be someone people hope to see on the second-team All-Rookie list. If McCain breaks through the rotation and is still playing come playoff time, that ceiling obviously becomes higher.
It’s important to remember though that even when he’s on the court, he’s going to be playing within a role. McCain has shown that he’s fearless and a fierce competitor though throughout his career. This attitude combined with his projected connector guard archetype should serve McCain’s rookie preview well.
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