NBA Writer gives 76ers passing grade following deadline moves.
The Philadelphia 76ers were among the teams that made a move at the 2026 NBA trade deadline, taking an unexpected approach by selling rather than adding talent.
Philadelphia parted ways with second-year guard Jared McCain, sending him to the Oklahoma City Thunder, while also dealing veteran guard Eric Gordon to the Memphis Grizzlies. McCain's departure was the most notable, as he had emerged as a fan favorite during his time in Philadelphia.
The decisions made by 76ers president Daryl Morey earned a B+ grade from Bleacher Report. B/R's Greg Swartz noted that while the approach was unexpected, it made sense given the team's circumstances.
“It was weird to see Daryl Morey play the role of seller at the trade deadline, although he wasn't wrong in doing so. Jared McCain became expendable given the play of rookie sensation VJ Edgecombe, and the former's stats this season (6.6 points, 1.7 assists, 38.5 percent shooting overall) didn't exactly scream first-round pick worthy,” Swartz wrote.
Swartz added that the return helps replenish its asset pool moving forward.
“Getting a first-rounder this summer (especially with their own going to the Oklahoma City Thunder) helps restock the young talent on this team. Philly also received three second-round picks for McCain. Keep an eye on the 76ers in the buyout market, as offloading Eric Gordon left Philadelphia with three open roster spots and nearly $5 million below the luxury tax. Nothing crazy from Morey here, just a smart bit of business," Swartz concluded.
For the 76ers and Morey, the deadline appeared to be about flexibility and future planning, even if it meant moving on from young talent with high upside in McCain.
McCain, a former first-round pick, showed flashes during his rookie season, averaging 15.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.2 assists on 46.0% shooting. However, a combination of injuries and poor play during his second season may have made him more expendable. He would spend most of the second year on the bench for the 76ers, seeing a decrease in minutes.
Now the 76ers have to move toward a world without McCain in their future plans. The team will look to maintain its pace and competitive roster as the No. 6 seed in a tough Eastern Conference.
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