During one 12-game span where Maxey was healthy and had adjusted to life atop the opponent’s scouting report, he was sensational. He averaged 33.7 points on 65.3% true shooting, numbers that align pretty well with the 33.4 points he’s averaging on 61.8% true shooting in 15 games this season. In actuality, the aberration was the poor play.

When he is healthy and right, Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George is still one of the best players on the floor on a nightly basis. He showed that in Thursday's road win over the Milwaukee Bucks when he scored 21 points in 24 minutes, including scoring the game's first 11 points to give the Sixers a spark.

Paul George is among those gushing about Maxey's growth: "This is similar to what Allen Iverson once did for the city."

The Philadelphia 76ers have been treading water this season with Joel Embiid and Paul George, among others, missing time, but Tyrese Maxey has been the biggest constant.

Maxey’s remarkable performance came one night after he played 39 minutes in a 121-112 loss to the Toronto Raptors. The 76ers have leaned on Maxey even more heavily because injuries have limited the availability of 2023 MVP Joel Embiid and six-time All-NBA wing Paul George.

Through all the losses last season, Maxey’s defensive progress was a silver lining. He’s got quick feet and clever hands, and he’s continued to take pride in his effort. Maxey led the Sixers in both steals and blocks on Thursday.