Nick Nurse's starting five might be more position-less than ever, considering the new-look Philadelphia 76ers have so many talented ball-handlers even beyond the top-five.
The star guard Tyrese Maxey pointed that out this week, as he attempted to explain his role to reporters on the eve of training camp. The two-time All-Star fired off many names of players who could bring the ball up for the team. There weren't many surprises, but the veteran star made sure to slip in the rookie, Labaron Philon Jr., before concluding with "the list goes on and on."
The subtle mention means a lot
At the end of the day, Tyrese Maxey isn't going to create roles for the team and put together the rotation. Ultimately, that's up to Nick Nurse to decide who does what. However, Maxey has to have some level of influence within the organization. Being a face of the franchise, earning over $200 million, the big-time investment has an opinion worth hearing. And if Maxey thinks Philon can play, he should.
Not to place too much pressure on the rookie, but the stakes are going to be immediately high for the rookie first-rounder out of Alabama. When Philon was selected, he was taken with one of the picks the 76ers acquired in the controversial Jared McCain trade. Philon is expected to make Sixers fans forget about the former Duke sharpshooter, but he's in a tough situation.
After Philon was selected, there was a thought that the young rookie could serve as Tyrese Maxey's primary backup with ease. The team hadn't reached free agency yet, but there weren't any public plans for the 76ers truly shaking up the roster. The Jaylen Brown trade happened, adding another ball-handler to the group. The Anfernee Simons acquisition came to life, putting another player in the way of Philon's minutes.
The cherry on top? LeBron James. He'll be listed as a forward, but the 76ers are more than likely going to have LeBron James playmaking for Philly. After all, he's still one of the best passers in the game.
The subtle mention from Maxey might seem small, but it's notable. It's a reminder for Nick Nurse not to let the rookie get buried on the depth chart by default. The 76ers are in a win-now mode, which typically takes minutes away from rookies, especially ones who aren't a top lottery pick. Philon doesn't have that badge, but he should get a fair shake at training camp to prove that he should get minutes early on.
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