Joel Embiid Applauds Tyrese Maxey's Performance vs. Raptors
Heading into the year, many expected Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey to take another step forward in his development. With James Harden out of the mix right now, the rising star is stepping up in a big way. Following another strong performance, Joel Embiid showed love to his teammate.
Coming off an impressive performance against the Milwaukee Bucks in the season opener, Maxey kept the momentum rolling against the Toronto Raptors Saturday. In 40 minutes of action, he posted a box score of 34 points, six rebounds, and seven assists. Most impressively, Maxey has only committed one turnover through his first two games.
After the game, Embiid was asked about Maxey's play so far this year. He continues to keep him in the right frame of mind and applauded him for continuing to make the right plays.
"I'm just trying to help him, and he's doing his thing," Embiid told reporters. "Can't get too high, can't get too low. Sometimes you make shots sometimes you don't but it's all about making the right plays and I think he's doing that."
Since being drafted by the Sixers, Maxey has developed at a rapid pace. Over the past two years, he's quickly blossomed into an All-Star-level talent. With a bigger opportunity right now, Maxey is proving he's capable of being a top guy for the Sixers for years to come.
The Sixers need this level of production from Maxey in a big way. As they continue to navigate the Harden situation, guys have to step up and be willing to take on more. Along with assuming point guard duties, he is also taking on a big scoring load next to Embiid.
It's been a scorching-hot start to the year for Maxey thus far, and he has an opportunity to keep things rolling on Sunday against the Portland Trail Blazers.
