76ers News: Tyrese Maxey Has One of NBA's Biggest Scoring Jumps This Season

Sixers rising star has one of league's highest PPG increases

Aside from the dominant play of Joel Embiid, one of the main storylines for the Philadelphia 76ers has been the play of Tyrese Maxey. The young guard is now the team's second option and is making the most of the opportunity. 

Throughout his career, Maxey has shown he's capable of being a high-level scorer. His offensive talent has been on full display this season as he carries the offensive load alongside Embiid. Maxey has appeared in 25 games this year and is putting up averages of 25.8 PPG, 4.0 RPG, and 6.7 APG. 

During the Sixers' matchup against the Chicago Bulls on Monday, the broadcast highlighted how impressive Maxey's leap is. He currently has the second-highest PPG increase of anyone in the NBA. The only player ahead of him is Bulls guard Coby White, who has been on a scorching-hot tear since Zach LaVine got injured. 

Largest Increase in PPG this season:

7.6 — Coby White
5.3 — Tyrese Maxey
4.9 — Scottie Barnes
4.9 — Obi Toppin
3.7 — Alex Caruso

*Compared to Last Season PPG* pic.twitter.com/l4FjAD7D4H

— Hoop Muse (@HoopMuse) December 19, 2023

Last season, Maxey thrived as the Sixers' third option next to Embiid and James Harden. He got to pick apart mismatches on a nightly basis as defenses focused on the team's star duo. That said, even with teams game planning for him, he's still managing to put up big numbers. 

Through the first quarter of the season, Maxey has had some big scoring nights. His best outing came in mid-November when he notched a career-high 50 points in a win over the Indiana Pacers. 

It goes without saying how crucial Maxey's emergence has been for the Sixers. With him proving he's capable of being a running mate to Embiid, it's allowed the team to remain patient on the trade front. 

If Maxey keeps this up, he'll be a heavy favorite for the Most Improved Player award this season. He's also left the Sixers no choice but to offer him a max contract when the time comes.