When the Philadelphia 76ers selected Tyrese Maxey out of Kentucky with the 21st pick in the 2020 NBA draft, they were expecting a guard with a burst of speed and an offensive package that needed only some polishing. He has made strides on that end all season as he has given the team promise for his future.
After scoring 30 points in Sunday’s season-finale win over the Orlando Magic, he finished his rookie season averaging 8.0 points and 2.0 assists while shooting 46.2% from the floor. He scored in double figures in 10 of his final 14 games played, and that gives the rookie hope he can be a part of the playoff rotation.
Maxey explained he has had conversations with coach Doc Rivers in terms of what to expect come playoff time.
“We’ve had a couple of conversations about it,” he stated. “He just told me he expects a lot. I just go out there and try to make him happy and do whatever it takes for us to win.”
As a rookie, his minutes have fluctuated. That is to be expected considering how deep of a team Philadelphia is right now. But he will definitely play a role, so he has to keep his mind right.
“I think my role is to always stay ready,” he added. “Just do whatever it takes to win the game. If coach puts me and asked me to play defense on somebody or asks me to get to the rack or asks me to set up for my teammates, that’s what I’m gonna do so. If not, I’ll be the biggest cheerleader. I’ll do whatever it takes for us to win so that’s it. That’s all I have to say to that.”
A big key for Maxey has been his confidence. For a rookie so young, he has not backed down from any challenge, and the progression he has made all season has been encouraging.
While he showed he can play in this league from Day 1, it is clear there has been progression in his game as the season has gone on. He has been quicker getting to the basket. He has been working on his jumper, and he looks much more comfortable.
“I think one day, coach pulled me into the office and told me go out there and be me, be you and be myself,” Maxey said. “I started thinking about it, and I was like you right. I gotta go out there and be me and of course, play within the team and within the system, but at the end of the day go out there and be yourself and do what you know you can do.”
As the Sixers prepare for the playoffs all week, one can expect Maxey to play a role in some capacity for this team.
This post originally appeared on Sixers Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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