The reigning champions continue to fine tune the margins, and early returns suggest they may have found another piece that amplifies everything they already do well. In just two games with the Thunder, Jared McCain has flashed the kind of perimeter precision and burst that shifts defensive attention immediately.
McCain has logged limited minutes, yet he has produced efficiently, scoring 12 total points on 5 of 12 shooting across his first two appearances, per FanSided. The box score only tells part of the story. His gravity has started to bend coverages, and his teammates have felt the difference.
McCain’s Presence Sparks Offensive Lift
Isaiah Joe has thrived since McCain entered the rotation. Over the last two games, Joe has averaged 20.0 points while connecting on 50 percent of his shots from beyond the arc. He has also attacked the interior more decisively, attempting 11 two point shots and earning 11 free throw attempts during that stretch.
General manager Sam Presti targeted McCain for perimeter scoring support, and the early chemistry stands out. While Joe has benefited most directly, the ripple effects extend across the roster.
Jalen Williams addressed McCain’s transition candidly.
Jalen Williams on Jared McCain:
“He fits right in. Our team is very easy to fit.. especially if you’re young, our team is really easy to get along with. It’s just one of our super powers.” https://t.co/LHCWzjosRq pic.twitter.com/kBigbPFYhW
— Brandon Rahbar (@BrandonRahbar) February 10, 2026
Williams’ comments highlight something deeper than shooting percentages. Oklahoma City prides itself on cohesion, and McCain’s ability to slide into that culture without friction matters just as much as his scoring.
The numbers reinforce the visual impact. Over the past two games, the Thunder have shot 40.5 percent from deep on 69 total attempts. McCain has taken only five of those shots. His quickness around the perimeter forces defenders to react, scramble, and rotate. That split second of hesitation opens up cleaner looks for others.
In Monday night’s win against the Los Angeles Lakers, six players finished with at least two assists, and four knocked down multiple three pointers. The ball moved. The floor spaced. The rhythm felt different. Oklahoma City also posted a plus 10 differential with McCain on the floor, a subtle yet telling indicator of his influence.
Championship teams search for edges. Through two games, McCain has provided one that does not always show up in bold font. For a group already stacked with versatility, that fit could prove valuable as the season unfolds.
