The Philadelphia 76ers‘ 2022-2023 season ended differently than they had hoped.
They lost in the second round of the playoffs to the Boston Celtics.
While this was devastating at the time, the 76ers were able to give Tyrese Maxey valuable playing time in the postseason.
The young, budding star knows what it is like to appear in big games, giving him experience for the future.
According to reporter Jake Fischer, Maxey recently revealed some advice he received from James Harden, saying, “He [James Harden] was like, Bro, I’ve seen you play. I know what you can do. You gotta go out there and help Joel by being aggressive and being yourself.”
Tyrese Maxey on the 76ers offense last season, via @JakeLFischer:
“I was giving the ball to Joel every play, every play, every play, He [James Harden] was like, "Bro, I’ve seen you play. I know what you can do. You gotta go out there and help Joel by being aggressive and being… pic.twitter.com/bMNMl2UE4H
— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) October 18, 2023
While Joel Embiid is one of the NBA’s best players and the reigning NBA, continually passing him the ball is not necessarily a recipe for success.
Maxey recognized this after the fact and was given some advice from James Harden.
For a young player, having a player of Harden’s caliber give him advice was likely a huge pat on the back.
Harden is an accomplished NBA veteran in his own right, and while he has his issues with the organization, he seems to be a team player.
With this advice in mind, Maxey can enter the 2023-2024 season with more confidence, knowing he is a capable member of this team.
Harden’s situation with the team is still murky.
Maxey could be given an increased role this season if Harden misses any time, giving him more opportunities to heed Harden’s advice.
NEXT: Nick Nurse Makes A Clear Statement On James Harden's Absence
