Jared McCain Injury Update: 76ers Guard to Miss Start of 2025–26 NBA Season After Thumb Surgery

Philadelphia 76ers guard Jared McCain will miss the beginning of the 2025–26 NBA season after suffering a thumb injury that requires surgery. The 21-year-old, who had a promising rookie campaign cut short last year, is now expected to be sidelined for four to six weeks.

The Sixers, who are preparing for their season opener on October 22 against the Boston Celtics, were hoping to have their young core fully healthy. However, ESPN insider Shams Charania confirmed that McCain’s return will be delayed as he recovers from the procedure.

Latest on Jared McCain’s Injury and Recovery Timeline

Shams Charania reported on NBA Today that McCain will undergo surgery on his right thumb and is projected to miss approximately four to six weeks. “Jared McCain is expected to undergo surgery on that right thumb and be sidelined approximately four to six weeks,” Charania said. “He will be out to start the regular season, and then from there, you hope that he’s gonna be able to make a return.”

The setback follows an already tough rookie year for McCain. The Sixers’ 2024 first-round pick (16th overall) had his debut season end early due to a torn meniscus while competing for Rookie of the Year honors. Now, just as he was expected to return to full strength, the thumb injury forces another delay.

Despite this latest issue, the Sixers expect McCain to make a full recovery. If the four-to-six-week timeline holds, he could return sometime in late October or early November, missing only the first few weeks of the regular season.

The Sixers open their preseason on October 2 against the New York Knicks and have four warm-up games before the season officially tips off on October 22. McCain’s absence is a blow to a Philadelphia team looking to bounce back from a disappointing 24–58 record last year, where injuries and inconsistent performances derailed their campaign.

What McCain’s Absence Means for the 76ers

McCain’s offensive skills and floor spacing were expected to help the Sixers rebuild their backcourt rotation. His ability to create shots and stretch defenses adds depth to a lineup that struggled with scoring consistency last season. Without him early on, Philadelphia will likely rely more heavily on its veteran guards and wings.

For head coach Nick Nurse, the focus will be on integrating McCain smoothly once he’s cleared to return. Missing training camp and early-season reps could slow his adjustment, but the Sixers hope his high basketball IQ will help minimize the impact.

Fans remain optimistic that McCain’s recovery will stay on schedule. If he returns in early November, he could still play the majority of the season and contribute to the team’s playoff push.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: How long will Jared McCain be out with his thumb injury?

He is expected to miss about four to six weeks after surgery, returning in late October or early November if recovery goes well.

Q2: Will Jared McCain play the Sixers’ season opener?

No. He is sidelined after thumb surgery and will miss the start of the 2025–26 NBA season.

Q3: What other injuries has Jared McCain faced?

His rookie season ended early in 2024–25 due to a torn meniscus while he was a top Rookie of the Year contender.

Q4: How does McCain’s injury impact the Sixers?

The team loses a young scoring option and floor spacer early on, putting more pressure on veteran guards to carry the offense.

Q5: When do the 76ers play their first home game?

The Sixers’ first home game of the 2025–26 season is on October 25 against the Charlotte Hornets.