Despite rostering multiple players with awe-worthy, video game-like skillsets, the Philadelphia 76ers — meshing an All-Star pairing together for the first time — were wise to wonder how quickly on-court chemistry would flow alongside their supporting cast. On the NBA Cup’s heightened stage, they discovered at least one rapidly-rising talent whose rhythm and game-by-game progression wouldn’t be slowed in the slightest. First giving Jalen Suggs a defensively-hounding dose of his own medicine, Jared McCain helps force a turnover before adjusting his scope towards the open floor. Second-guessing his initial decision, McCain, in mid-flight, kicks out to one of his marquee teammates before relocating into position for a wide-open 3-pointer, granting Philadelphia a nine-point third quarter edge. Philadelphia’s lead wouldn’t hold against the Orlando Magic’s lockdown-focused approach on November 15, 2024, but McCain — loudly introducing himself to the early-season’s Rookie of the Year conversation — dazzled even so. In his fourth-consecutive game of 20+ points, McCain captivated audiences through a 29-point game (on 10-of-17 shooting), alongside four assists, five trifectas, and a +13 plus-minus. · Nov 16, 2024