For as long as Philadelphia 76ers fans care to remember, dominant center Joel Embiid has been burdened with the hopes and dreams of an entire city as it continues to search for its first NBA title since 1983. However, after an abundance of frustrating injuries, Embiid's reign as king of Philadelphia could finally be over, as Tyrese Maxey is emerging as the franchise's newest leading light.
Embiid has demonstrated that when available for selection this season, he remains a fantastic offensive option for the Sixers. Over six games, the 31-year-old has averaged 19.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game.
The crippling issue for the 76ers is clearly not the numbers that Embiid can record, but the fact that the 2023 Most Valuable Player is only recording 23 minutes each matchup, and has now been placed on Philadelphia's injury report for the fifth consecutive game -- four of which have been listed under 'right knee injury management'.
Players wishing to be the face of a franchise must be ready to turn up night in and night out at a world-class level. Something that Maxey is doing consistently as the Sixers showcase an enthralling brand of offensive basketball to start the season.
Philadelphia is Maxey's city now
When experts discuss the most exciting players in the NBA, Tyrese Maxey will now be at the forefront of that conversation after his stunning start to the 2025-26 campaign. Not only has the explosive guard been inevitable in terms of scoring, but he has exhibited traits of an elite playmaker.
The 25-year-old has recorded 32.5 points (the second-highest total in the league), 4.9 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game, while registering 41.3% from deep. Maxey's ability to chalk up numbers in whatever column his team needs him proves that he is far from a one-trick pony.
Despite not possessing the age of a veteran, Maxey's attitude and leadership on the court have been nothing short of remarkable. The partnership that he has formed with the exciting rookie VJ Edgecombe is one example of the Kentucky graduate shouldering more than just responsibilities on the court -- setting the standards for the younger generation is clearly a priority.
One thing that no one can dispute during the Joel Embiid era has been his extraordinary ability to dominate on the court. Nevertheless, leading with his words rather than his actions is something for which he has never been renowned. Maxey has shown this year that he is willing to do both.
Many fans will argue that when he is healthy, the Philadelphia 76ers are still very much Embiid's team. If this season is anything to go by, it may be time to admit that Tyrese Maxey is the future of the franchise, and the sooner that the front office leans into this reality, the sooner that the Sixers can commence a new era.