76ers' Jared McCain Tears Right Thumb UCL

Philadelphia 76ers guard Jared McCain suffered a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right thumb during a workout Thursday, the team said, and McCain and the organization are consulting specialists to determine next steps. The injury, reported the day before media day, clouds his availability for preseason and the season opener given typical UCL recovery timelines of roughly 4–12 weeks depending on severity and whether surgery is required. McCain, 21, whose rookie year was already cut short by a December meniscus tear, averaged 15.3 points and shot about 38.3% from three in 23 games. He had been competing for a starting role next to Tyrese Maxey, so his absence increases pressure on No. 3 pick V.J. Edgecombe and could affect Quentin Grimes' role amid ongoing contract uncertainty. Veterans Kyle Lowry and Eric Gordon figure into the team's plans for backcourt depth as the franchise says it believes it has options to try to weather McCain’s absence. The setback adds to the Sixers’ broader health concerns — Joel Embiid and Paul George remain recovering from recent knee surgeries — while the team assesses timelines.