In a predictable move, Tyrese Maxey, the young guard and playing partner of Joel Embiid, has committed his future to the Philadelphia 76ers. According to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, Maxey, a restricted free agent, has signed a five-year, $204 million contract, securing his tenure with the team through the 2028-29 NBA season. This deal solidifies Maxey alongside recently acquired Paul George, forming a new Big 3 aimed at challenging Eastern Conference rivals, particularly the Boston Celtics.
Maxey’s exceptional performance last season saw him achieve career highs with averages of 25.9 points (45% FG, 37% 3P, 87% FT), 6.2 assists, and 3.7 rebounds per game. His standout year earned him the Most Improved Player award and his maiden All-Star selection.
Philadelphia finished the season with a 47-35 record, clinching the seventh seed in the East and making a play-in tournament appearance. Despite a first-round playoff exit against the New York Knicks in six games, Maxey showcased his scoring prowess with an impressive series average of 29.8 points (48% FG, 40% 3P, 89% FT), along with 6.8 assists and 5.2 rebounds per game.
Maxey’s journey to becoming a max-contract player has been rapid. Drafted 21st overall in 2020, he initially played limited minutes off the bench, averaging eight points per game in his rookie season. His role expanded significantly in his sophomore year, where he started 74 games and finished sixth in Most Improved Player voting. After adjusting to a bench role during parts of the 2022-23 season to accommodate James Harden, Maxey flourished as the team’s primary point guard following Harden’s departure last year.
While Maxey’s offensive capabilities have been impressive, questions remain about his defensive consistency, particularly given his substantial salary. During the recent playoff series against the Knicks, he faced scrutiny for defensive lapses despite standout offensive performances.
Maxey’s development and impact will be crucial to Joel Embiid’s satisfaction with the team’s direction, alongside Philadelphia’s plans in the ongoing free agency period. The Sixers have already committed significant cap space, including agreements with Andre Drummond and Kelly Oubre Jr.
