The Philadelphia 76ers recently traded promising guard Jared McCain to the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for four draft picks, a move that has deeply affected the team’s dynamics. This trade, which took place in early February 2026, comes as the 76ers aim to strengthen their roster through future selections. Amidst this change, veteran point guard Kyle Lowry shared his thoughts on the impact of McCain’s exit, addressing how the team is handling the situation emotionally and professionally.
Lowry spoke on NBA on Prime during an interview with Taylor Rooks, where he acknowledged the difficulty of the trade but emphasized the value the team received in return, including one first-round and three second-round draft picks. Despite the strategic benefits, Lowry expressed a personal sentiment rooted in the bond formed with McCain during their time together on the 76ers.
The Emotional Toll of Trading a Young Teammate
Lowry described McCain as one of the most personable and lovable players he has encountered, highlighting the young star’s lighthearted presence around the team.
“Jared is, like, one of the most lovable guys out there,”
Lowry said. He recalled McCain’s constant laughter, humor, and playful TikTok videos made behind their backs, reinforcing the close-knit atmosphere McCain helped foster.
“The trade deadline sucks for individuals like him because he’s an asset…I told him, basically, ‘Listen, a team wanted to give up that much for you, that means you’re worth something…’ We just miss him; he’s always laughing, he’s always joking, he does TikToks when we’re not looking. And then posting them. He’s just a great kid,”
Lowry added.
Maintaining Connections Despite the Trade
Lowry also touched upon how the 76ers’ locker room is managing McCain’s absence internally. He emphasized understanding that basketball is a business but made it clear that the personal ties with McCain won’t fade.
“So internally, we’re dealing with it. We understand the business of basketball,”
he stated.
To McCain, Lowry offered support beyond their shared time in Philadelphia:
“I told him, ‘Listen, I’m big brother. No matter what, no matter what team, what uniform you have on, what city you’re in, give me a call.’ I think we had such a tight-knit crew that, you know, we’ll still be in touch with him.”
Lowry expressed optimism about future encounters, noting that McCain is looking forward to reuniting when the Thunder visit Philadelphia later this season.
Looking Ahead to McCain’s Return to Philadelphia
Jared McCain played 60 games for the 76ers over the last two seasons before moving to Oklahoma City, where he now joins the reigning champions. His departure marks a significant shift for the Philadelphia squad, but the professional and personal impact of this trade is still very much present within the team.
The Thunder and 76ers are scheduled to face each other on March 23, offering an opportunity for McCain to return to Philadelphia and for the clubs to test their evolving rosters against each other. This matchup will be a key moment to observe how both teams have adapted following the trade and to witness firsthand the ongoing journey of Jared McCain under a new banner.
"It's a tough situation… Jared is like one of the most lovable guys out there… He's always laughing. He's always joking. He does TikToks when we're not looking… He's a great kid."
Kyle Lowry on Jared McCain getting traded 🗣️
(via @NBAonPrime)pic.twitter.com/Qm66SydhlL
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 7, 2026
