Sixers: 5 most promising players under 25

Sixers’ five most promising players under 25 — 1. Tyrese Maxey

Maxey’s played just one season with the Sixers, but it’s no overexaggeration to suggest that he’s their young asset with the greatest chance of developing into an elite player. His ridiculously quick first step and knack for creative finishes, paired with a proven ability to show up in big moments, simply screams star potential.

Maxey did have his struggles in his rookie campaign, as most rookies do — especially those selected outside the lottery. At times, he struggled to get to his spots offensively, instead settling for pull-up midrange jumpers. He was even removed from the lineup altogether at points throughout the season.

However, he demonstrated rapid development and eventually played his way back into the rotation just in time for the games to matter most. Despite struggles early in the Atlanta series, Maxey went from barely seeing the floor to playing 29 minutes in a do-or-die Game 6 where he scored 16 points and recorded a +12 plus-minus. Without this clutch performance on the road, there wouldn’t have even been a Game 7 for the Sixers to heartbreakingly choke in.

Summer league this year further showcased Maxey’s development. Against weaker competition, he looked able to get wherever he wanted on the court. The awkward midrange pull-up shot appears to be sidelined in his toolbox, replaced with a pull-up three-pointer that Maxey shot with confidence and poise in his few summer league games.

Still just 20 years old, Maxey has shown all the signs of turning into a star lead ball-handler. At this point, he is clearly the player with the most upside under the age of 25 that the Sixers have under their control.