McCain has been rehabbing from a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right thumb, an injury suffered during a workout in September 2025 that sidelined him for the start of the 2025–26 regular season. Encouragingly, he appears to be ahead of schedule — a welcome development for a 76ers team off to a 4–0 start.

Sixers coach Nick Nurse also provided an injury update on McCain, who had a split removed from his surgically repaired hand.

Sixers look just right as they currently exist. How will they manage the integration of multiple high-usage pieces?

Paul George (left knee surgery recovery), Dominick Barlow (right elbow laceration) and Jared McCain (right thumb surgery recovery) have been ruled out for the Sixers’ matchup with the 2-3 Celtics. Barlow will miss at least the next two games and be re-evaluated early next week, a team official said.

Nick Nurse reveals his plan for Jared McCain's return, and it could make the 76ers' guard rotation even more dangerous.