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Thunder Acquire Rising Guard Jared McCain: What California Families Managing Professional Athletes’ Estates Need to Know

Thunder Acquire Rising Guard Jared McCain: What California Families Managing Professional Athletes'
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - DECEMBER 28: Jared McCain #20 of the Philadelphia 76ers drives to the basket during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on December 28, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images)

For California residents managing assets tied to professional sports careers—whether you’re an athlete, sports agent, family member, or financial advisor—understanding how major career transitions impact estate planning and asset protection is critical. The recent trade sending Philadelphia 76ers guard Jared McCain to the Oklahoma City Thunder offers a timely reminder of why proactive legal planning matters when income streams, residency, and contractual obligations shift suddenly.

What Happened: The McCain Trade Details

The defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder acquired guard Jared McCain from the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for four future draft picks. This represents a significant career pivot for the 2024 lottery pick who showed early promise but faced setbacks.

Trade Breakdown:

  • Thunder receive: Jared McCain
  • Sixers receive: 2026 first-round pick (Houston Rockets)
  • Three future second-round picks (2027 most favorable from OKC/HOU/IND/MIA, 2028 Milwaukee, 2028 OKC)

    • McCain’s Performance and Contract Status

    McCain is currently averaging 6.6 points and 1.7 assists over 37 games this season, a downturn from his rookie campaign when he averaged 15.3 points, 2.6 assists, and 2.4 rebounds before a left knee injury ended his season after 23 games. He earned Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month honors in November and set an NBA rookie record with eight consecutive games making at least three 3-pointers.

    Critically for planning purposes, McCain remains under contract through the 2026-27 season, joining the league-leading Thunder (40-11) who need guard depth with MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sidelined.

    Why This Matters for California Estate Planning

    1. Multi-State Tax and Residency Complications

    Professional athletes face unique tax challenges when relocating between states. Moving from Pennsylvania to Oklahoma triggers questions about:

  • State income tax obligations in multiple jurisdictions
  • Property ownership and real estate holdings across state lines
  • Trust domicile and whether California residents need California-specific trust structures
  • Changing beneficiary designations when family members remain in different states

    • 2. Guaranteed Contract Value and Asset Protection

    With McCain under contract through 2026-27, he has guaranteed income that requires immediate protection strategies—especially given his injury history. California families managing similar situations often ask:

  • “How can I protect guaranteed contract earnings if my career ends unexpectedly?”
  • “What happens to my assets if I’m traded to a state with different creditor protection laws?”
  • “Should I establish a revocable trust now or wait until my contract situation stabilizes?”

    • 3. Career Uncertainty and Legacy Planning

    McCain’s trajectory—from Rookie of the Month to injury setback to being traded—illustrates how quickly professional circumstances change. For athletes and high-earning professionals, this uncertainty demands:

  • Durable powers of attorney that remain valid across state lines
  • Healthcare directives that protect you during rehabilitation or career-ending injuries
  • Trust structures that preserve wealth for future generations regardless of career length

    • How California Probate and Trust Protects Athletes and High-Net-Worth Families

    At California Probate and Trust, PC, we’ve represented thousands of California residents navigating complex asset protection scenarios—from professional athletes managing multi-state contracts to families protecting generational wealth. Our approach combines legal precision with compassionate guidance, recognizing that behind every estate plan is a family story worth protecting.

    Our specialized services include:

  • Multi-state estate planning coordination: Ensuring your trust and power of attorney documents remain enforceable whether you’re in California, Oklahoma, or Pennsylvania
  • Asset protection trusts: Shielding guaranteed contract income, endorsement deals, and investment portfolios from creditors and litigation
  • Healthcare directive planning: Critical for athletes facing career-threatening injuries who need immediate medical decision-making authority
  • Tax-efficient wealth transfer: Minimizing estate tax exposure when managing assets across multiple jurisdictions
  • Probate avoidance strategies: Ensuring your family doesn’t face lengthy court proceedings if the unexpected happens

    • Take Control of Your Future Today

    Whether you’re a professional athlete navigating contract transitions, a family managing California real estate and out-of-state business interests, or simply someone who values transparency and wants to protect your loved ones, California Probate and Trust, PC offers the one-stop-shop solution you need.

    Schedule your FREE estate planning consultation today:

  • Call (866)-674-1130
  • Visit cpt.law to learn more about our services
  • Offices in Fair Oaks, Sacramento, and San Francisco

    • Our experienced attorneys provide clear, transparent estate planning packages designed specifically for California residents who refuse to leave their family’s future to chance.

    Source: NBA.com – Reports: Thunder acquire Jared McCain in trade with Sixers

    Legal Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information presented should not be relied upon as a substitute for personalized legal counsel. Estate planning, trust administration, and asset protection strategies vary significantly based on individual circumstances, state residency, and applicable laws. California Probate and Trust, PC does not represent Jared McCain, the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Philadelphia 76ers, or any parties mentioned in this article. This article uses publicly reported information to illustrate general estate planning principles relevant to California residents. For specific guidance regarding your estate planning needs, multi-state tax obligations, or asset protection strategies, please schedule a consultation with a qualified estate planning attorney licensed in your jurisdiction. Attorney advertising.