PHILADELPHIA — When a team makes such a huge addition like James Harden in the middle of the season, it sends shock waves through the entire roster. Everybody has to change roles and adjust to what Harden brings to the floor.
The biggest example of that was rising star Tyrese Maxey, who was the team’s starting point guard at the beginning of the season but had to move to shooting guard to accommodate the future Hall of Famer in the lineup.
Maxey thrived in the new role. He averaged 18.7 points and shot 48% from deep playing next to Harden. Now that the two have been able to work out in the summer, the young guard out of Kentucky is ready to build more with The Beard.
“It’s gonna be great,” said Maxey at his 1% skills camp on Saturday. “Chemistry is everything. We only played like 20-something games together so for us to be able to have a whole training camp and an entire season together, it’s gonna be nothing but good things for us and a positive outcome.”
On top of growing chemistry with Harden, the Sixers must incorporate new additions PJ Tucker, De’Anthony Melton, and Danuel House Jr. The fact they will have a full training camp excites Maxey.
“It’s good to have a full team and have a training camp and everything,” Maxey added. “Especially, with James and PJ and those guys coming in, so we’re just gonna go out there and be the best that we can possibly be.”
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In terms of his own individual goals, an All-Star appearance could be in sight for the young rising star. He made such a big leap in his second season and playing next to Harden will do wonders for him, but he kept it all about the team when asked about the All-Star game.
“Who knows, man?” he smiled. “I’m all about the team first so as long as we’re winning by the All-Star break, I’ll be happy.”
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