Nick Nurse had a feeling Jared McCain’s left knee surgery would sideline the 76ers guard for the remainder of the season. So the coach would check in with the rookie more often and ask how he was doing when they crossed paths around the practice facility.

McCain suffered the torn meniscus in his left knee on Dec. 13 during a 121-107 loss to the Indiana Pacers. He underwent surgery to repair the tear and his return was indefinite. Repairing the meniscus was better for McCain's long-term prognosis with the injury. However, it also meant there would be a longer recovery.