The Philadelphia 76ers were counting on rookie guard Jared McCain to be a cornerstone of their campaign, but his debut season has come to an abrupt end. The team announced Thursday that McCain will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee.

McCain, who suffered the injury during a December 13 game against the Indiana Pacers, was on track to contend for Rookie of the Year honors. His standout performances and record-setting moments had provided a glimmer of hope in an otherwise disappointing season for the Sixers.

McCain’s injury marks a significant setback for Philadelphia, whose championship aspirations have already been hindered by injuries to key players like Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. The Sixers’ record of 15-20, placing them 11th in the Eastern Conference, reflects the toll of these absences. Losing McCain, the Sixers’ fourth-leading scorer, further dims their playoff hopes.

The decision to repair McCain’s meniscus rather than opting for a less invasive procedure prioritizes his long-term health, though it guarantees a longer recovery. “We’ve got to try to keep things long term,” head coach Nick Nurse said before McCain’s surgery, per NBC Sports Philadelphia. “This is about his career, which we hope is many, many years.”

Despite the abrupt end, McCain’s rookie season showcased his immense potential. Drafted 16th overall out of Duke, he averaged 15.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.6 assists while shooting 38% from beyond the arc. His shooting touch shattered records, including an NBA-best 26 three-pointers made in his first five starts and an NBA rookie record of eight consecutive games with at least three three-pointers made.

Jared McCain’s record-breaking rookie run ends amid Sixers’ turbulent season

In November, McCain delivered a scoring streak that included seven consecutive games with 20 or more points, highlighted by 34- and 30-point outings. His 37 made three-pointers through 15 games also eclipsed Allen Iverson’s franchise record.

The Sixers entered the season with championship ambitions anchored by their Big Three of Embiid, Maxey, and offseason acquisition Paul George. Yet injuries and a lack of continuity have derailed those hopes, with the trio playing limited games together. McCain’s breakout performances had been a rare silver lining.

For the Sixers, McCain’s absence presents yet another hurdle in a season full of challenges. “You never really get a chance to go back and win Rookie of the Year,”Nurse said. “That’s a major one to have. It’s a tough way to go out.”

While Philadelphia navigates its current struggles, McCain’s long-term potential offers a beacon of optimism for the franchise. His record-setting performances and offensive capabilities suggest a bright future when he returns to full health.

As the Sixers look to regroup and salvage their season, McCain’s contributions will be sorely missed-but his rookie campaign has already left an indelible mark on the franchise.