Shortly after word first surfaced in August that Ben Simmons intended to hold out this fall in an effort to force the Sixers to trade him, one report indicated that fellow guard Tyrese Maxey might be included in any Simmons trade. The thinking, according to that report, was that agent Rich Paul – who represents both Simmons and Maxey – preferred to have both his clients out of Philadelphia.
However, asked at Media Day on Monday about that rumor, Maxey denied it, telling the media that he and Paul were “sitting there laughing at it.” Maxey added that he has no desire to leave Philadelphia (Twitter link via Gina Mizell of The Philadelphia Inquirer).
“I don’t know where that came from,” he said (Twitter link via Derek Bodner of The Athletic). “… I love being here and I love the city. I can’t wait to get started.”
As we noted when we relayed that August report on Maxey, the idea that Paul had the desire and the leverage to get the 20-year-old included in a Simmons deal always seemed a little far-fetched. Maxey is entering just the second season of his four-year rookie contract and showed plenty of promise as a rookie, reducing the likelihood that the 76ers would be strong-armed into moving him.
If Simmons continues to hold out and the Sixers don’t find a trade in the short-term future, Maxey figures to take on a significantly increased role to start the 2021/22 season. Head coach Doc Rivers strongly hinted earlier today that Maxey would become Philadelphia’s starting point guard as long as Simmons remains AWOL.
With all of the uncertainty surrounding the Sixers right now, it’s no wonder that 70% of the voters here think that Philly won’t be able to win more than 50 games this season. They won’t threaten either the Nets or the Bucks to reach the ECF.
I think to be honest if maxey starts at the 1 and Seth at the 2 we will be fine … I think the Sixers and to be honest the Celtics gonna surprise a lot of ppl this year
Considering Simmons created the most open 3 chances last season, and posted good number even the haters can’t argue with. Along with his defensive abilities and height at PG I can’t see Maxey being able to fill his shoes, he’s too different.
It would need a complete reshuffle of tactics, that could take a while to settle. I don’t see them doing too great this season, but If they can figure it out it could be a great set up in a year. I really like maxey and think he will have a big future, if he can get a starting spot he’ll do well eventually.
I’m sure Maxey & Paul think the rumor machine is hilarious.
He laughs too much. What difference does it make where it started?— end it.
If these things aren’t true. Why didn’t they deny it when it happened. Instead of waiting for media day. Not a Paul fan. Not a fan of players with agendas. Basketball is a team sport. And it’s business is about winning. You win as a team. Keep the agendas away from the team.
As much as I don’t like Morey. And think Sixers have only themselves to blame. I know they will get value for Ben. It’s best for Sixers to get this done with. As soon as possible. Sixers are a contender so will not give Ben away. This will get done by start of season or beginning. Sixers have to get everyone on same page. And move forward with new players. So it’s in their best interest to get this done. And concentrate on winning the East.