Tyrese Maxey quietly hinted at pivotal developments for the 76ers next season

The Philadelphia 76ers face multiple challenges to become championship contenders next season, heavily dependent on Joel Embiid's health and other factors. Guard Tyrese Maxey, during an ESPN interview, highlighted two key developments that could elevate the team: the need to prove their potential on the court rather than just on paper, and his personal focus on improving playmaking and off-ball movement.

Maxey has evolved significantly since being drafted in 2020, developing into an all-star caliber player through enhanced perimeter shooting and pick-and-roll decision-making. For next season, he aims to advance his playmaking by executing more complex passes (like skip passes) when attacking the rim to maximize offensive opportunities. His off-ball improvement, however, will depend on Philadelphia's offensive structure—particularly how Embiid operates in the post and whether Paul George assumes greater ball-handling duties.

Maxey also emphasized the potential impact of new teammate Trendon Watford, whom he envisions providing a Draymond Green-like influence. Watford, a versatile forward with unconventional playmaking skills in the post and pick-and-rolls, offers defensive IQ and physicality. While not identical to Green, his passing could inject creativity into an offense that lacked innovation last season. His arrival addresses the void left by Guerschon Yabusele's departure, potentially stabilizing the power forward position if Maxey's expectations materialize.