Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid have become two of the Philadelphia 76ers’ longest serving players after some major changes to their roster last season.
Maxey was drafted in 2020, while Joel Embiid was picked third overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2014.
Both have made immense contributions to the franchise, but a lot of questions have recently been raised on Embiid’s ability to lead the team from the front.
The 2023 MVP has had an injury-riddled career, but last season things took a turn for the worse as he played only 19 games before getting ruled out for the season.
There has been no return date set on Embiid’s return to the team, but Tyrese Maxey has revealed he is excited to be back on the floor with the big man.
Injuries have troubled Embiid throughout his career in Philly. A Philadelphia journalist recently stated that the seven-time All-Star could be near the end of his career after all his injuries.
Maxey called Embiid out for being late to team meetings last season, and despite things being fine between the two, a lot of headlines were made after this incident.
However, both the players have since stated how close they are, and in his appearance on a podcast, Maxey gave his flowers to Embiid.
The guard said: “I was messing with my little brother the other day and he said, ‘Have you ever seen Joel do a jump hook,’ we found those clips, while we found those clips we also found some clips of him doing step backs, hesi pull ups.
“This dude is special, I’m just blessed to be a part of some of the best moments of his career, and I can’t wait to see him get back out there.”
Maxey has elevated his game every season he has been on the 76ers, and while last year was a disappointing one for the team, he averaged a career-best 26.3 points.
Embiid managed to play only 19 games, but Maxey tried to show up for the team, showcasing leadership and accountability.
Kendrick Perkins stated Maxey would want out of the team if they failed to win games, but the player is happy in Philadelphia.
He has already returned to the team for practices and is preparing for the next season.
Embiid’s return date has not been confirmed, but until then the 76ers can put their faith in Maxey.
Once he gets back and is completely fit, the 76ers can once again rely on the Embiid-Maxey duo as they are proven performers.
Both can score over 25 points on a nightly basis and if the 76ers manage to build around them, they could lead the team to become a formidable force in the East.
