Jalen McDaniels Was Shocked but Excited to Join Sixers

After a Thursday practice session, Jalen McDaniels found out he was on the move.

Jalen McDaniels approached practice with the Charlotte Hornets business as usual on Thursday. Following the session, he received word that he was set to join the Philadelphia 76ers.

“Got a call from my agent,” said the young veteran “I really didn’t think I was gonna be traded or nothing like that. We were just talking, and he was like, ‘You’re going to Philly.’ I’m like, ‘Right now?’ I’m on the phone, and a few of my teammates look at me, and I guess they were on Twitter or whatever. I’m like, I’m really not a Charlotte Hornet anymore. I’m going to Philly.”

Thursday’s trade deadline was as active as ever. As the market’s closing time approached, rumors were flying, and deals were getting done. McDaniels found himself in the middle of a four-team trade between the New York Knicks, Portland Trail Blazers, Hornets, and the Sixers. 

While he was shocked to hear the news that he would be on the move for the first time in his career, McDaniels looks forward to getting a fresh start, going from a struggling Eastern Conference team to a top-three playoff contender.

“Definitely exciting,” McDaniels continued. “Just a team that's been far in the past and planning on going there this year, and just them coming after me and wanting me to be here, it says a lot like I could bring to the team help get to that point.”

McDaniels didn’t get to debut on Friday night, as the Sixers engaged in a tight matchup with the New York Knicks. Although he registered a DNP, McDaniels was suited up on active on the bench just taking in the experience with his new team. 

“This is a great atmosphere,” he said. “Everybody’s competitive, playing to win, honestly. That’s the biggest thing I noticed; everybody is playing to win. With that energy, it can only bring the best out of you. I found a good new home.”

The Sixers are back on the floor Saturday night to take on the Brooklyn Nets. At the moment, it’s unclear whether or not McDaniels will make his Sixers debut. Either way, he’s ready to take the court and get his feet wet with Philly whenever Doc Rivers calls his number.

Justin Grasso covers the Philadelphia 76ers for All76ers, a Sports Illustrated channel. You can follow him for live updates on Twitter: @JGrasso_.