Sixers: 5 takeaways from first third of 2020-21 season

Sixers takeaway #4: Maxey needs time

The Sixers made the right pick at 21. Some of the early flashes from Tyrese Maxey have been tantalizing. His 39-point outburst against Denver seemed to signal the arrival of a future star — the kind of prospect that would make Philadelphia balk in James Harden negotiations.

Fast forward to early February, and Maxey’s flashes have been interspersed with his fair share of duds. Such is life when you’re a rookie point guard. Maxey is only 19, he’s only 6-foot-3, and he’s an inconsistent 3-point shooter. It was never going to click on all cylinders for 72 games. Maxey needs time, and fans should happily give it to him.

The Sixers are in a position where it’s difficult for young, inexperienced guard talent to viably contribute in a significant capacity. Especially when that guard talent cannot serviceably space the floor. Not yet, at least. Maxey’s speed is something the Sixers backcourt has lacked for the longest time. Even so, his inconsistency as a ball-dominant, volume-scoring guard makes it hard to justifiably pair him with Embiid and Simmons for long stretches.

In time, Maxey will likely improve his jumper. He will learn how to contribute off-ball, he will learn to draw more fouls, and his efficiency will increase. Maxey was never really a point guard at Kentucky, yet he has already shown some unexpected passing chops. All the tools of a dynamic playmaker are there. The Sixers simply need to exercise patience and not panic over a slow stretch.