Jared McCain helping on both ends as rolling Thunder take on Wizards

Oklahoma City guard Jared McCain has been key to the team's recent success on both offense and defense.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 7:35am

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Coming off a season-high 26-point performance, Oklahoma City Thunder guard Jared McCain has been making an impact on both ends of the court since being acquired in a trade in February. Thunder coach Mark Daigneault praised McCain's defensive commitment and fundamentals, which have been crucial with the absence of Jalen Williams. The Thunder are 15-3 since acquiring McCain and lead the NBA in net rating. Meanwhile, the struggling Washington Wizards are on a 14-game losing streak and will be short-handed again on Saturday, with Anthony Davis and Trae Young both sidelined.

Why it matters

The Thunder's recent success has them in position to secure the top seed in the Western Conference, and McCain's two-way play has been a big part of that. For the Wizards, the losing streak and continued injury issues have them falling further out of playoff contention in the East.

The details

Since being acquired from the 76ers on Feb. 4, Jared McCain has integrated well into the Thunder's system, especially on the defensive end. Coach Mark Daigneault praised McCain's commitment to the team's defensive fundamentals and his ability to be 'fundamental and feisty' despite giving up some size. McCain's defense has been crucial with Jalen Williams sidelined by a hamstring injury. The Thunder are 15-3 since the trade and lead the NBA in net rating, while the struggling Wizards have lost 14 straight games and will again be without key players like Anthony Davis and Trae Young.

  • The Thunder and Wizards first met on Oct. 30, with Oklahoma City winning by 19 points.
  • The Wizards' current 14-game losing streak began on Feb. 20.

The players

Jared McCain

A guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder who was acquired in a trade with the 76ers on Feb. 4 and has made a strong impact on both ends of the court for the Thunder.

Mark Daigneault

The head coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder, who has praised McCain's defensive commitment and integration into the team's system.

Jalen Williams

A key ballhandler for the Thunder who has been sidelined since Feb. 11 with a hamstring strain.

Brian Keefe

The head coach of the Washington Wizards, who has been pleased with the recent defensive growth of reserve center Tristan Vukcevic.

Anthony Davis

A player for the Washington Wizards who has yet to make his debut for the team after not playing since early January.

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What they’re saying

“He's done a really good job of committing to our fundamentals and the things that we need to do on the defensive end of the floor.”

— Mark Daigneault, Head Coach, Oklahoma City Thunder

“He's one of the better bigs in the league in terms of disruptions -- disrupting the ball, getting his hands on things.”

— Brian Keefe, Head Coach, Washington Wizards

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.