James Harden's step back move is one of the most feared moves in the NBA. The Sixers star's ability to create separation out of this air and launch a fairly accurate deep ball is dangerous as hell. Combined with his finishing at the rim and penchant for drawing fouls, and he's easily the most infuriating player to defend in the NBA.
That alone is enough for Tyrese Maxey to be glad that James Harden is on the Sixers now. After the latter's debut game against the Timberwolves, Maxey spoke candidly about the true reason why he's happy Harden's in Philly now. (via NBCSPhilly)
Tyrese Maxey is so glad he doesn't have to guard James Harden stepbacks anymore 😅😭 pic.twitter.com/jaZHWYlNCn
— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) February 26, 2022
Maxey, like many other NBA defenders, have been tormented by Harden's simple but dangerously efficient repertoire. Watching the former MVP sink heavily-contested step-back threes and four-point plays is infuriating for opposing fans AND players. For the Sixers now, the only time they'll be tortured with that hell is during scrimmage sessions.
Harden's Philadelphia debut couldn't have gone better for him and his new team. Against a young Timberwolves squad, Embiid, Maxey and Harden balled out, combining for 89 points in a rout of Minnesota. When this team is firing on all cylinders, there's no question they are one of the favorites to win it all this season.
The question for the Sixers now is simple: can they incorporate Harden seamlessly before the playoffs? The Beard is a notoriously high-usage player who prefers the ball in his hands. There might be an adjustment period where Doc Rivers might adjust Embiid's post touches and Harden's ball-handling. Still, if they figure that out before May, they'll be a pretty dangerous squad to face.
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