Sixers: Ranking every bench player in order of importance

Ranking every Sixers bench player — 1. Tyrese Maxey

What does it tell us when the most comfortable choice at No. 1 is a 6-foot, second-year guard with a rocky 3-point shot and unproven defensive acumen? Not something good. That said — and this is probably more projection than straight analysis — the best version of Philadelphia’s bench involves Maxey soaking up the spotlight. If the Sixers want a consistent second unit, it starts with Maxey taking another step forward and becoming a true everyday sixth man.

Maxey is the Sixers’ most consistent source of rim pressure in the halfcourt outside of Joel Embiid and aggressive Ben Simmons (lol). He’s a speedster, with tight handles and a penchant for dribble penetration. That is a skill set the Sixers have lacked for far too long. Maxey’s ability to break down a defense and create advantages makes him of singular importance to Doc Rivers’ offense. It’s why he become so important in the playoffs.

Next season, Maxey will need to improve as a shooter and defender in order to earn Doc Rivers’ unwavering trust. That said, there wasn’t a better bench player in the Sixers’ second-round loss to Atlanta. Maxey has proven his mettle at every turn, from his 39-point game in January to his postseason heroics. His work ethic is endlessly praised, and his catchphrase of “get one percent better every day” actually paid dividends as a rookie. It’s rare to see a player grow so much in-season.

That is why Maxey gets the No. 1 spot. He works too hard and competes too fervently not to improve. Not to take the necessary next step. He understands his game and his role within the team. He has said all the right things, and come up big time and time again on the floor. Maxey is what stands between Philly and another season of mediocre bench play.