5 takeaways from the Philadelphia 76ers’ shorthanded games

Here are five takeaways from the Philadelphia 76ers’ decimated roster over the last three games.

The Process is supposed to be over, but it certainly did not feel that way over the last few Philadelphia 76ers games. Due to COVID and injuries, the current team feels very similar to the Process-era Sixers, filled with rookie second-round picks and overtaxed veterans. While these games seem meaningless, there are key takeaways that can help the Sixers moving forward.

Sixers takeaway #1: Tyrese Maxey is ready for a bigger role

Much has been already been written of Tyrese Maxey, but the stud rookie is still worth mentioning here. Maxey has been sensational over the last three games, averaging 23.3 points, 6.0 assists, and 5.3 rebounds while bearing an enormous offensive load. He has been in command of the offense and does not seem afraid of the moment.

Finding a larger role for Maxey will be tougher once the roster is healthy. Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, and Shake Milton all deserve significant minutes in the backcourt, although sliding Simmons to either forward spot provides an opening for Maxey. Doc Rivers should definitely experiment with different lineups to get Maxey more involved.