Over the last two seasons, Tyrese Maxey has established himself as a devastating offensive presence for the Philadelphia 76ers. His explosive movements to the rim, deadly three-point shooting, and an improved ability to facilitate opportunities for his teammates have placed him firmly at the top of opponents' scouting reports. However, one area Maxey does not get enough credit for is his anticipation on defense.
It’s fair to say the average fan tunes into the NBA hoping for an electric matchup and plenty of points on the board. This is an entertainment business; without a high-octane tempo being on display, spectators will not believe they have received value for their money.
With this being the case, it is understandable that it is Tyrese Maxey's scoring antics that are generating the most attention. Given the sheer volume of points he is recording, this would be a difficult factor to ignore. The 25-year-old is averaging 29.1 points and 6.7 assists per game, while shooting 46.7% from the floor.
Nevertheless, the 76ers offense is at its most dangerous when it is hitting its opposition in transition and not allowing its defense to slip into a structure. Thanks to Maxey's latest leap, this tactic is easier to execute.
Maxey's steal frequency is becoming a strong foundation for the 76ers
Tyrese Maxey has always made it clear that he is willing to work on every aspect of his game as he continues his journey to stardom. His offensive development is undeniable, especially in the absence of Joel Embiid. Defensively, the Kentucky alum has not shown that this is strongest asset as a player -- until now.
This season, Maxey's anticipation levels have skyrocketed. On each possession, the 76ers guard is ready to pounce on any indecisive pass that the opponent makes. Once he forces a turnover, his frightening pace gets him downhill faster than the Millennium Falcon making the Kessel Run (12 parsecs).
Now, if that Star Wars reference does not excite you about Maxey's defensive work during the 2025-26 campaign, maybe the statistics will. Currently, he is averaging a career-high two steals per game, while also recording 0.8 blocks per game -- another career-high.
This trend continued during the Philadelphia 76ers' 124-117 victory over the Miami Heat at the Xfinity Mobile Arena. Maxey recorded five steals and one block with just two fouls to his name. This was the 11th time this season that the Sixers' star had recorded 4+ steals in a game -- with a career-high eight steals coming in a 113-104 win against the Indiana Pacers on January 20.
For the Philadelphia 76ers to make a deep run in the postseason, Tyrese Maxey must continue his phenomenal scoring record. However, his defensive development has become a critical aspect of the Sixers' game plan; he must continue his work off the ball for his team to achieve the success they so desperately crave.