After the Harden trade, the biggest winner turned out to be him! With an average of 30+6+6 per game, 76 people made a clear statement
Shortly after the start of the new season, the 76ers completed a blockbuster trade with the Clippers, sending Harden and Tucker to Los Angeles in exchange for Batum, Morris, Covington, Martin Jr. and multiple draft picks. The deal not only ended Harden's brief stay in Philadelphia, but also opened a new chapter in the future of the 76ers, the biggest beneficiary of which was 22-year-old guard Maxey.
In the first three games of the season, Maxey showed amazing offensive ability, averaging 30.3 points, 6.7 rebounds and 6.3 assists per game, shooting 56% from three-point range, and was successfully selected as the best player in the East.
His outstanding performance has strengthened the 76ers management's determination to send Harden away, believing that Maxey can partner with Embiid to become the team's duo. Maxi also lived up to the team's trust, not only did he have more possession and shooting opportunities on the field, but he also took the initiative to organize attacks and passes, becoming the team's number one commander.
Maxey's rise didn't happen overnight, and he has already proven himself to be a young player with potential after the Simmons affair erupted last season. Even after Harden joined, he was not suppressed, but formed a good chemistry with Harden. This offseason, the 76ers, while not re-signing Maxey, have made it clear that they will not put him in any trade. Now that Harden is gone, Maxey is undoubtedly the team's new second-best leader.
Of course, Maxi still has a lot to improve, especially on the defensive end. In today's NBA world, offense alone is not going to be successful. Luckily, the 76ers got two players with good defensive prowess in the deal, Batum and Covington. They can help Maxey improve his defensive awareness and skills, and they can also share some of the pressure on the defensive end.
The 76ers didn't make any less competitive after losing Harden and Tucker, two players who were one offense and one defense. Embiid and Harris are two of the team's most consistent scoring spots, Maxey and Melton can add fire, and Oubre is also a surprise for the team at the moment. Also on the bench are defensive stalwart Beverley and new additions Batum and Covington. The 76ers still have a chance to make a mark in the crowded East.
After being promoted to the second leader, Maxey's goal is to take a long-term view, win the Most Improved Player award, be named to the All-Star bench team, and make a big splash in the playoffs. But the sudden change in his role also brought him a lot of challenges. He needs to make better use of Embiid's pick-and-roll threat and take on the role of second-in-command, choosing between personal data and team interests. More importantly, he needs to work with Embiid to lead the 76ers out of the East and for the championship.
Maxi has distinctive technical features:
He's good at breaking, his first move is fast, and he can easily get out of defense and score inside. He's got the strength of his waist and abdomen, and he can take on opponents in the close-frame area, as well as a small throw for finishing.
He's a great team and can form good chemistry with teammates like Embiid. When he is on the fast break, he is able to receive long passes from Harden and pass the ball to his teammates in a timely manner. He is also able to take the initiative to create space and opportunities for his teammates and is an unselfish player.