In the struggling start to the season for the Sixers, currently in 14th place in the East (2 wins – 9 losses) with injuries to Joel Embiid, Paul George and Tyrese Maxey, there is a “big ray of sunshine”. This is the rookie Jared McCainstarting for the first time this season (and therefore his career) against the Cavs last night.
Result ? 34 points on 12/26 shooting, including 6/13 from 3-point range, and 10 assists in 38 minutes! This is the best mark for a beginner this season, ahead of Zaccharie Risacher's 33 points against the Knicks.
Over the last four games, and the injury to Tyrese Maxey, the former Duke player has averaged 25.5 points at 46%, including 43% from 3-point range, with an average of 4.0 assists.
Adept at meditation and visualization
“Another great match from him” appreciated Nick Nurse, despite his team's new defeat. “The most important thing, for me, is the 10 assists… He learns quickly. He had opportunities, shots but he feels the game well, he plays the right way, and that's really the most encouraging thing in my eyes. But he’s confident and he’s playing really well, and he’s a really big ray of sunshine.”
The “head coach” assures that he was already considering making his rookie responsible, but his recent performances will encourage him to do it more, even when Tyrese Maxey leaves the infirmary.
A fan of TikTok but also of meditation and visualization, which help him to project himself into new situations, Jared McCain does not say he is surprised by his recent good outings, while he assures that Donovan Mitchell in particular made him nice compliments during the meeting.
Does he see a full-time starting role, alongside Tyrese Maxey, for the rest of the season?
“Not yet, not yet” he laughs. “I just visualize winning matches and finding my role. To do everything I can to help the team win, no matter what it is. »
