Sixers Rookie McCain Sidelined with Pulmonary Contusion

Philadelphia 76ers rookie guard McCain has been diagnosed with a pulmonary contusion following an incident during the team’s preseason game against the Brooklyn Nets. The team’s announcement, made on Thursday, clarified that the player did not sustain a concussion, as was initially feared.

The incident occurred in the closing minutes of the fourth quarter at the Wells Fargo Center on Wednesday. McCain was driving to the basket when he collided with a Nets defender, causing him to fall heavily and strike his head and back on the floor. He remained on the floor, visibly coughing and having difficulty breathing, before managing to stand and being assisted off the court.

Tim Bontemps of ESPN reported that McCain was taken to the hospital for evaluation shortly after the game. Further evaluations confirmed the presence of a pulmonary contusion but no concussion symptoms, as conveyed by NBA insider Chris B. Haynes.

McCain, aged 20, was the 16th overall pick in the June NBA draft out of Duke University. He has been a standout performer for the 76ers during the preseason, averaging 12.8 points and 4.6 rebounds per game. His absence from Friday’s preseason finale against the Orlando Magic has been confirmed, and his condition will be monitored daily by team medical staff.

Despite the setback, McCain’s absence is seen as a precautionary measure, and the team is relieved that the rookie avoided a concussion. Head coach Nick Nurse and the Sixers will continue to evaluate his health and recovery carefully.