Tyrese Maxey has emerged as a legitimate superstar in the NBA, as the Philadelphia 76ers' injury problems over the past few years have paved the way for him to take the reigns as the team's best player. Maxey is trying his best to steady the boat for the 76ers, especially with Joel Embiid and Paul George currently out of action, and at this point, it's not his fault Philly couldn't compete on a few nights — including a blowout against the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday.
Whatever the case, Maxi has earned himself millions of fans with the way he carries a heavy workload every night and remains as productive as ever despite facing all the defensive attention around the world. And it can't happen a big fan star compared to former 76ers guard and head coach Doug Collins.
"Tyreese Maxey is my favorite player in the NBA. I hope these Philadelphia fans know they have a star of stars. His personality, his performance, his smile, the joy he plays the game with. I think it's a huge thing for this city of Philadelphia and they've got a great sidekick now in VJ Edgecombe," Collins said during Tuesday's game against the Spurs, via NBC Sports Philadelphia. Said before the 76ers game.
"Tyrese Maxey is my favorite player in the NBA."
Doug Collins has high praise for the Sixers' point guard pic.twitter.com/WZoT8dASj2
- NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) 4 March 2026
76 people are stuck in two timelines
The 76ers worked hard to keep the selection that ultimately became VJ Edgecombe, and now, they have a skilled backcourt to build the team around. The problem, however, is that there remains a lot of uncertainty surrounding Embiid's health, and George's drug-related suspension has cast another cloud over the team.
Be that as it may, if Embiid and George are ultimately completely gone, the 76ers can at least have an easier time rebuilding around Maxey and Edgecombe.
