The funny thing about the Philadelphia 76ers is everyone talks about the elder statesman of this team. More specifically, they talk about LeBron James, LeBron James, and Jaylen Brown. Everyone has overlooked the young guys like Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe.
Sure, Brown is 29 now, but in just a week or two, he’ll turn 30. Once a player hits 30, they’re usually considered at the end of their prime. Meanwhile, Maxey is 25 and Edgecombe is 21. So, while the team will more than likely maneuver through Brown and Embiid, the real heartbeat of this offense is the young guards.
Make no mistake about it, James, Embiid, and Brown are going to have major roles for winning basketball games in key situations. However, Edgecombe and Maxey will be the thing that either keeps the game close or help them extend the lead. The reason being is that these two can move so quickly it’s going to put added pressure on opponents. The other thing that makes these two so dangerous is they can move without the ball. Maxey has already shown that the shooting guard is his natural position.
Last season, Maxey was top five in scoring and clutch shots made. While there may be a dip in his scoring, his importance to the team makes it hard for opponents to know where the ball is going. Edgecombe is a different story altogether. He’s the slasher of the team. His shooting can be pretty sporadic, but what he can do when he has the ball in his hands is simply masterful. So yes, all eyes will be on James, but that would be more for what he’s done in the past, not what he’s doing now.
All this offensive talk is fine and dandy, but let’s not forget the defensive side of the ball. This is another asset for Edgecombe over Maxey, but both can contribute. Maxey may be a better off-ball defender in terms of chasing his assignment and forcing the ball elsewhere. Edgecombe is going to look to take the next step in his defensive game by being an important on-ball defender.
Edgecombe has a knack for forcing turnovers and smothering his opponent. That’s why he’s been joined at the hip with Brown. Brown can show him the tricks to being a top defender in this league.
While all the praise could go to James and Embiid, it's going to be the young guys who make this team what it is. The 76ers need everyone to play well, but Edgecombe and Maxey will be the ones that heighten their play for this potential championship season.