The Philadelphia 76ers are off to an impressive 3-0 start this season, led by rookie sensation VJ Edgecombe. However, head coach Nick Nurse is already looking ahead to bolstering the team’s backcourt by reintegrating another talented guard into the rotation.
According to Keith Pompey of *The Philadelphia Inquirer* on X (formerly Twitter), Nurse shared his plans for Jared McCain’s return. “Inserting him in with the VJ [Edgecombe], Tyrese [Maxey], and [Quentin Grimes guard] group is the plan,” Nurse said. “That was sort of the plan going into the season. Again, I think they all can do a variety of things, and give us a chance to have some more depth.”
Nurse emphasized the importance of having McCain back on the court. “We need him back. We look forward to having him back,” he added.
### Injury and Recovery Timeline
McCain’s comeback timeline hinges on his recovery from a recent procedure. On October 1, he underwent surgery to repair a torn UCL in his right thumb. Initially, the expected recovery period will keep him sidelined for at least a month.
This setback comes after a frustrating rookie campaign cut short last season when McCain tore his left meniscus in December 2024. Before that injury derailed his season, McCain was making waves with solid averages of 15.3 points, 2.6 assists, and 2.4 rebounds per game.
His efforts earned him the Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month honors for both October and November 2024. McCain’s standout performance came against Cleveland on November 13, when he tallied 34 points and delivered 10 assists.
### Edgecombe Steps Up
While McCain recovers, Edgecombe has seized the opportunity and electrified the league in his first three games. The third overall pick is posting remarkable numbers, averaging 25.0 points, 6.0 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game. He’s also shooting an efficient 50/40/75 from the field.
Edgecombe’s debut was historic—he scored 34 points in a thrilling 117-116 victory over Boston, setting a franchise record for most points in a debut game. This total ranks as the third-highest scoring debut in NBA history, instantly placing him among elite company.
### Looking Ahead
Coach Nurse’s plan highlights a strategic approach to deploying multiple dynamic ball-handlers who can space the floor and create opportunities for their teammates. Once McCain is cleared to play, Philadelphia’s guard rotation could become one of the team’s most formidable strengths.
The future looks bright for the 76ers as they anticipate adding McCain back into the lineup alongside Edgecombe, Maxey, and Grimes—providing depth, versatility, and scoring prowess in the backcourt.
https://clutchpoints.com/nba/philadelphia-76ers/76ers-news-nick-nurse-jared-mccain-plan-vj-edgecombe-start
