It did not take long for Tyrese Maxey to become a fan favorite in Philadelphia. Between his easy-going personality and strong work ethic, he is an easy guy to root for.
Not only did fans take note of Maxey's drive to get better, but teammates and coaches as well. Any time the young guard was brought up during media availabilities, no matter who was speaking, they would praise him for his dedication to his craft.
One player who had a lot to say about Maxey during media day on Monday was Danny Green. The longtime NBA veteran spoke on just how special the 20-year-old can be as his game continues to blossom.
He's special. I'm sure everyone can see that. If he continues to do what he does, he can be a really special player in this league. He carries himself like a star, and I believe one day he will be.
When someone who has been around the league as long as Green makes comments like this, it's worth noting. Throughout his career, he has had the opportunity to play alongside great players. From the big three of the Spurs dynasty to LeBron James, Green has shared the floor with some of the best players the game has had to offer. He would not have said this about Maxey if he did not see great potential.
In the weeks leading up to the 2020 NBA draft, Tyrese Maxey was seen as a lottery-level talent. Things did not play out that way, and Daryl Morey was able to select him with the 21st overall pick. Before the draft had even concluded, the Kentucky guard was agreed on as the steal of the night.
Opportunities came few and far between for Maxey in year one, but he always made the most of his time when his number got called. Most notably in the beginning of the season, when he erupted for 39 points against the Denver Nuggets in just the tenth game of his career.
There is no denying that Tyrese Maxey will be a good player in this league for years to come after seeing what he did in the playoffs. Despite being forced to learn the NBA life on the fly as a rookie, he managed to elevate his game when the lights were brightest. When the Sixers found themselves in a must-win situation on the road in game six against the Atlanta Hawks, Maxey scored 16 points and grabbed seven rebounds off the bench en route to a win.
Maxey regularly mentions his coined phrase of “getting one percent better each and every day” when discussing his work off the court. With a motto like that, it's hard to believe he won't reach his full potential down the road.
After how things have played out for the 76ers this offseason, Maxey will have an opportunity to back up Green's comments. Ben Simmons remains intent on holding out until he is traded, and Maxey sits atop the list of players to replace him in the starting lineup.
All the pieces are in place for Tyrese Maxey to be a breakout player this season. Only time will tell how much his game can grow in year two.
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