As a result of signing his new five-year 204-million dollar contract with the Philadelphia 76ers Tyrese Maxey has become not only a star of the team but the future face of the franchise. In addition, he has cemented himself as one of the best co-stars, Philly has had during the Joel Embiid era. Maxey will have a lot on his plate as a star point guard for the Sixers. If he can handle all of the responsibility and pressure, that comes with being one of the top three highest-paid players on a title contender the Sixers will be in great shape to make some noise in the loaded Eastern Conference.
How Tyrese Maxey Can Level Up His Game
Become a Middy Assassin
When Maxey first entered the league, one of his biggest weaknesses was his ability to make three-pointers and jump shots. He eventually turned that into a strength and became one of the best three-point shooters in the league. As a result, Maxey can now take players off the dribble. He can also use his three-point ability to create shots for himself or his teammates. For this upcoming season, Maxey has to become a mid-range assassin and take advantage of his speed to create high-percentage two-pointers for himself and open up easier opportunities to attack the basket.
Last season Maxey did not really take many midrange shots after he broke down his defender. Maxey attempted just 1.8 mid-range shots per game compared to 12 shots at the rim and 8.1 three-pointers. He would usually attack the basket and either make a lay-up or get fouled. Becoming an assassin from the midrange would make him a more well-rounded scorer. Also, it would allow him to really space the floor for Embiid and Paul George.
Continue to Improve Defensively
Most people paid attention to Maxey’s offensive leap last year. As a result, his improvement defensively largely flew under the radar. However, Maxey took a huge step towards becoming a two-way player. His improved footwork on the defensive end, allowed him to be in a great position to create a timely steal or turnover. That would lead to an easy basket opportunity for the Sixers. He averaged 1.0 steals per game during the regular season. If he can continue to improve defensively, then the Sixers will be one of the best defensive teams in the association. Notably, the Sixers ranked 11th in defensive rating last year.
Continue to Improve Playmaking Skills
Maxey is known as one of the best offensive players in the association. In addition, he is a budding playmaker. This past season was the first time Maxey was the full-time point guard for Philly he averaged 6.2 assists per game. Maxey should have plenty of opportunities, to increase his assist total this season playing next to Embiid and George. Also, if he can increase his total assists to between 8-10 per game this season the Sixers will be in great shape to win a lot of pivotal games starting in October.
If Maxey can implement all of these things into his game, not only will he be a true second option for the Sixers but he could make an All-NBA team, and go to his second All-Star Game.
