The Philadelphia 76ers have stumbled into a rough start this season. With a 2-11 record, the team looks disjointed. Joel Embiid, the former MVP, has returned from injury and suspension in poor form. Yet, the consistency of Tyrese Maxey and the emergence of rookie Jared McCain offer a glimmer of hope. This “miracle” backcourt might be the only way to salvage their season.
Only ‘Miracle’ Backcourt of Maxey and McCain Can Save the 76ers From Embiid
Embiid Struggles as Sixers Falter
Embiid has been far from his dominant self. After missing nine games to start the season, he’s averaging 14.7 points and 6.3 rebounds in three appearances. These numbers are a shadow of last season’s averages of 34.7 points and 11.0 rebounds per game. In fact, those numbers are career lows for him.
His shooting splits—32.4% from the field and 15.4% from three—are alarmingly low. Against the Heat, Embiid scored just 11 points and didn’t attempt a free throw. For context, the last time Embiid didn’t attempt a free throw in a game was all the way back in 2018. If Embiid doesn’t return to form soon, the Sixers’ title hopes will slip away. Until then, the backcourt duo of Maxey and McCain must carry the load and drag the 76ers to the playoffs in spite of Embiid.
Miracle Backcourt: The 76ers Add Maxey, McCain, and Embiid through the draft
The Sixers’ knack for capitalizing on extraordinary circumstances continues to reshape their roster. In 2020, they lucked into Maxey, the 21st pick, thanks to a game-winning shot by Mike Muscala that secured a draft pick from the Thunder. Fast-forward to 2024, and another miraculous turn of events unfolded. After finishing 47-35, Philadelphia won a four-way coin flip, landing the 16th pick used to draft McCain.
Jared McCain Emerges as a Star
McCain wasn’t in the rotation to start the season. Now, he’s one of the most exciting rookies in the league. The No. 16 pick is averaging 15.2 points and 2.5 assists on efficient shooting splits: 47.7% from the field, 40.8% from three, and a perfect 100% from the free-throw line.
When Maxey went down with a hamstring injury on November 6, McCain seized his opportunity. He’s started the last three games, and he’s scored 20+ points in each of those appearances. His standout performance came against the undefeated Cavaliers, where he posted a career-high 34 points and 10 assists. McCain’s ability to score efficiently, both off the dribble and in catch-and-shoot situations, has been critical. He’s made 50.0% of his catch-and-shoot threes, proving he doesn’t need the ball to contribute.
Tyrese Maxey Remains the Engine
Before his injury, Maxey was the Sixers’ most consistent player. In seven games, he averaged 27.6 points and 3.9 assists. His dynamic scoring and ability to create opportunities for teammates kept Philadelphia competitive. Maxey has grown into one of the best guards in the Eastern Conference. His development has been a testament to the Sixers’ ability to find gems in the draft, much like they did with McCain this year.
Can the Duo Coexist?
McCain and Maxey have similar strengths and weaknesses. Both are undersized guards who rely on speed and shooting to excel. The question remains: Can they play together effectively?
Head coach Nick Nurse has experience managing small guard lineups, having successfully paired Kyle Lowry and Fred VanVleet in Toronto. A similar approach could work for Maxey and McCain. However, their defensive limitations may make it difficult to start them together consistently. Alternatively, Nurse could use McCain as a sparkplug sixth man. His scoring off the bench would provide depth and keep the team’s offense dynamic.
The 76ers Playoff Hopes Rest on the Young Shoulders of Maxey and McCain Amid Embiid’s Struggles
The Sixers need to find a balance in their backcourt rotation. Embiid’s poor form makes it essential for the 76ers to maximize the potential of Maxey and McCain. McCain’s rapid rise and Maxey’s proven capabilities offer hope in an otherwise bleak season. If they can build chemistry and maintain their production, this “miracle” backcourt might be enough to carry the Sixers to the playoffs. Embiid must eventually return to form, but for now, the Sixers’ future depends on their young guards.
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