Tyrese Maxey got her feelings known about his new role with Sixers in the midst of Joel Embiid’s absence: “I was upset early in the year” | NBA News

Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid. Image via: Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images

Tyrese Maxey stepping up as a leader for Philadelphia 76ers With extended responsibility both on and off the field. With Joel EmbiidOut of the lineup, Maxey had to embrace the challenge of filling the void left by the reigning MVP. The dynamic guard has assumed more responsibility, managed his team through critical moments and leaders as an example. Maxey recently shared his feelings about his new role in the franchise as Embiid is still out due to his lingering damage.

Tyrese Maxey shared his feelings by taking a new role for Philadelphia 76ers

Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid. Image via: Elsa/Getty Images

Tyrese Maxey has entered a leadership role for Philadelphia 76ers during the 2024-25 season, especially with Joel Embiid, who often became sideways. The team’s struggle with consistency in Embiid’s absence was visible, which proposed Maxey in the limelight as both playmaker and a motivator. Maxey has apparently absorbed the pressure as Sixers is hovering outside the eastern conference playoff run.
He has to do two jobs at once – stabilizing the team while raising his game. By reflecting on his extended responsibility, the young guard recognized the challenges, but revealed that he intended to keep the 76s competitive. “You just have to embrace it,” Maxey said in a recent conversation (via coupling points).
“Frankly, it’s a respect thing. I was upset early in the year, was double teamed and was flashed by pick-and-rolls. I had good conversations with Joel (Embiid) and Kyle (Lowry) – that’s a respect thing. They feel they’re going to flash you out of pick-and-rolls, they’ll put two guards on you, ”the 24-year-old continued.
Certainly, Maxey has been under a lot of pressure as the team seeks to make their attitude impressive, but it was quite difficult with the frequent absence of the Olympic gold medalist. Embiid’s knee injury has affected the Philadelphia 76ers seriously, which has limited him to only 13 games this season. Without their Star Center, the team has struggled to stay competitive and place a disappointing 10-21 record. When the 30-year-old is on the floor, Sixers has been noticeably better and gone 7-6. His absence has left a large void at both ends of the court, making it difficult for Philadelphia to find consistency. Certainly, All-Star Paul George has facilitated some of the burden from Maxey’s shoulders, but again his responsibility for the team is still crucial.
“Your job now is to get your teammates for a good shot, get your teammates a good look, make the game easier for them,” Maxey said. When he talks about his new role in that team, he added, “That’s what I’ve been trying to do.”
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As the season progresses, the team and fans expect the return of the Embiid. According to new reports, Embiid has allegedly practiced, but he is still excluded in two more matches.