They say the preseason counts for nothing in the NBA, which could be true from the point of view of the entire team. When it comes to players who are on the outside looking into their team’s regular-season rotation, however, the preseason is all that matters at this point.
The selection of Philadelphia 76ers in the first round of Tyrese Maxey could be certain that he is not going to be part of the team’s regular early season plans. After all, he joined the team nearly a month ago and played in his first 12 NBA minutes Tuesday.
But despite Tuesday’s preseason opener against the Boston Celtics Maxey’s first taste of NBA action, the rookie is already winning over his head coach and teammates as he led out eight points, three assists, and a rebound in 12 minutes.
“He’s good, and I’ve said that – he’s a good player,” Sixers head coach Doc Rivers said after Maxey’s debut. In the past, Rivers has made it clear that it will be difficult for any of the team ‘s three rockets to get on the ground during the regular season in the first year – especially this season.
But Rivers will not deny that if Maxey continues to perform and improve as he has in recent times, it will be difficult for staff to keep the coach on. leave the court.
“He pushes for minutes because he’s a good basketball player; he knows how to play. You can’t accelerate him; he has plenty of pictures, he makes simple plays. I’m on this Kentucky men have come in to prepare for the NBA. This kid knows how to defend, and he talks on defense – he ‘s coached, for sure. “
The action value of one game will not get Maxey in the turn – but he will have another chance to win Friday night in the Sixers’ second preseason game against Indiana Pacers.
At this point, Rivers has made it clear that he is already well aware of four defenses that are going to make the rounds, leaving fifth place as a similar battle among Maxey and several other players. While the rookie may not make a strong enough case to win minutes now, Rivers is already seeing a situation where it will be difficult to keep the first round guard off the court for a long time.
Justin Grasso covers the Philadelphia 76ers for Sports Illustrated. You can follow him on Twitter: @JGrasso_