WATCH: Tyrese Maxey Torches Ben Simmons and The Brooklyn Nets
The NBA returned last night as the Philadelphia 76ers took on the Brooklyn Nets in preseason action.
With Joel Embiid and James Harden sitting, it left opportunities for many other players. Most notably Tyrese Maxey.
Tyrese Maxey 20 Points in 14 Minutes
The first three of Maxey’s offensive onslaught took place 25 seconds into the game as he abused Ben Simmons in the pick and roll. It began with Simmons going under a Paul Reed screen, and Maxey made him pay by burying a deep three. Maxey followed that up with another deep transition three off the dribble. This time, he was making KD pay for sagging off.
From this point on, Maxey terrorized any Nets defenders standing in his way. A variety of crafty finishes and getting to his spots in the mid-range. Yes, I said spots, Maxey worked on his mid-range game this offseason and looks comfortable taking these shots when needed.
Beyond the ways Maxey scored, he looked more muscular. A once-thin frame looked pretty strong last night. A focus on drawing fouls paired with his stronger frame and Maxey may just be on the verge of another breakout season. I certainly wouldn’t bet against the kid.
Ben Simmons on the other hand …
It was night and day, the difference between Maxey and Simmons last night. Somehow Ben looked even worse than he did with the Sixers. Meanwhile, Maxey looked like the best player on the court, which is insane because Durant and Kyrie Irving also suited up.
