Overview

• Philadelphia confirmed McCain tore the ulnar collateral ligament in his right thumb during a Sept. 25 workout and said he is consulting specialists on next steps.
• Multiple reports, including ESPN’s Shams Charania via Bleacher Report, say he will undergo surgery and miss roughly four to six weeks, putting the Oct. 22 opener in doubt.
• McCain had been slated for a major role this season, so early minutes could shift to restricted free agent Quentin Grimes if retained, top rookie VJ Edgecombe, and veteran Kyle Lowry.
• The 2024 No. 16 pick averaged 15.3 points on 46.0% shooting and 38.3% from three in 23 games before a left meniscus tear ended his rookie year in December.
• Injury concerns remain across the roster, as Joel Embiid said at media day he has a plan to play but offered no timetable after knee surgery, and Paul George continues his own knee recovery.