The Sixer Sense
Fansided

Ranking every player on the Sixers’ 2021 roster

By Christopher Kline

Matisse Thybulle, Shake Milton, Ben Simmons, Sixers (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.
Matisse Thybulle, Shake Milton, Ben Simmons, Sixers (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. /
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Philadelphia 76ers
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player. 93. . PG. Philadelphia 76ers. Tyrese Maxey. 11

Ranking every player on the Sixers roster — 11. Tyrese Maxey

Early in the season, Tyrese Maxey showed flashes but was largely ineffective. As a result, Doc Rivers benched him. In the final few weeks of the season, however, the rookie has reemerged in the rotation. His ability to improve in-season is wildly impressive, especially for someone who was not regularly on the floor until recently.

Maxey has improved his 3-point shot, become more poised as a defender, and made a real case for playoff minutes. He may or may not get them, but Maxey’s trajectory is pointed straight up. He will be an important part of this team moving forward, and should have a consistent role in 2021-22.

No one on the Sixers can replicate or replace Maxey’s skill set. He’s already one of the fastest players in the NBA — a lightning bolt who can explode past defenders with ease. Maxey gets dribble penetration and pressures the defense better than any true guard on the Sixers’ roster. Now that his 3-point shot has arrived, defenses will have a tough time keeping him in check.

With a feathery floater and more confidence attacking the rim, Maxey should become a regularly efficient scorer in the NBA. He’s not a perfect lead playmaker yet — he still has room to grow in the offseason — but his ability to create off the dribble is immensely valuable to the Sixers. He is here to stay.

— Christopher Kline