In a recent showcase of talent, Jared McCain discussed his distinctive layup techniques while the Philadelphia 76ers faced challenges in their recent game. The 21-year-old guard, who stands at 6-foot-3, has been adapting his game following a meniscus tear that impacted his performance in his sophomore NBA season. McCain’s unorthodox approach to finishing around the rim has become a key aspect of his repertoire as he seeks to regain his peak form.
McCain’s Unorthodox Finishing Style
Despite being undersized at the professional level, McCain has developed a unique package of layups that allows him to navigate through taller defenders. He has incorporated a variety of scoop shots and “inside-hand layups,” which are executed with the hand closer to the basket. These techniques are designed to help him score despite his lack of vertical athleticism.
Reflecting on the origins of his unusual finishing style, McCain shared insights from his childhood. “Playing up with my brother, I’ve always had to find a way to score on him that wasn’t a catch-and-shoot, as he would just block my shots,” he explained. This early experience led him to explore angles and methods to effectively finish at the rim. As he continues to recover from his injury, McCain is using these specialized layups more frequently to compensate for his current lack of explosiveness.
While McCain’s unconventional techniques served him well last season, they have become a liability in the current campaign, leading to a decline in his finishing numbers. His ability to score with traditional layups is also affected when he struggles to gain momentum during games.
Sixers Adapt to Frontcourt Challenges
On the same night, Joel Embiid faced significant adjustments in the Sixers’ frontcourt. With injuries impacting the team’s rotation, Embiid played alongside other centers, including Andre Drummond and Adem Bona. Coach Nick Nurse highlighted the team’s efforts to maximize their offensive potential despite the lack of three-point shooting, which hindered spacing on the floor.
Embiid expressed mixed feelings about the new lineup, stating, “It was alright. Obviously, it’s hard to judge because a lot of times I thought it looked pretty good, but we were also not able to take advantage.” He acknowledged the importance of improving their perimeter shooting to enhance spacing and prevent defenses from collapsing around him.
During the game, Embiid showcased his versatility by hitting his first corner three-pointer of the season and assisting Bona on several high-low lobs, contributing to the team’s offensive output despite the challenges.
As the Sixers navigate through this transitional period, Embiid remains open to experimenting with different lineups. “It was worth a try,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement in their offensive strategy.
Meanwhile, Jabari Walker, who stepped up in the absence of fellow power forward Dominick Barlow, faced shooting difficulties but brought valuable skills to the team. Walker’s strength lies in offensive rebounding, where he is averaging a career-high 4.7 offensive rebounds per 100 possessions this season. His contributions on the glass can lead to second-chance points, proving essential for a team in need of offensive boosts.
Walker credited the influence of veteran players on the Sixers, stating, “I’ve heard about veteran leadership, but I’ve never really seen it to this extent.” His experience alongside seasoned players has accelerated his development, allowing him to integrate their insights into his game.
As the Sixers continue to adapt and evolve, both McCain and Walker represent the team’s ongoing efforts to find success amidst adversity. With their unique skills and determination, they play vital roles in the franchise’s quest for excellence as the NBA season progresses.