The Philadelphia 76ers made some notable additions this summer, and it has them poised to make a push for the NBA title. But before the new-look Sixers can start winning together, they must first learn how to play together and how to best maximize each other’s game.
Without a single game played, it’s tough to say where the chemistry is at for this 76ers squad, but Tyrese Maxey has already given it some serious thought. In fact, when asked about how to make things work next season and the order of authority in the locker room, Maxey confirmed that no star is above any other.
“I think it depends on what the situation is,” said Maxey in a chat with HoopsHype. “I think we have the ultimate confidence in a lot of different guys. I think the biggest thing is that nobody on this team can have an ego. We have two guys who have won regular-season MVPs, two guys who have won Finals MVPs, multiple gold medal winners on this team, multiple 25-plus points per game, All-Stars, and All-NBA. We’re all pretty accomplished. So the ego has to drop, and you have to do it collectively.”
Personal egos have been the detriment of many superteams before, and it could spell disaster for this 76ers team if their stars don’t bring the right approach. That’s why Maxey is imploring his teammates to set aside egos and play for the success of the team rather than the individual. Still, if anyone’s at the top of the pecking order in Philly, it’s Maxey.
The 25-year-old guard was only drafted in 2020, but he’s already risen through the ranks to become the face of the franchise. Last season, in 70 games, he averaged 28.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, 6.6 assists, 1.9 steals, and 0.8 blocks per game on 46.2% shooting from the field as he led the 76ers to the seventh-best record in the East.
The next one under Maxey is probably Jaylen Brown. Besides LeBron, he’s more accomplished than anyone on the team as a former NBA champion and five-time All-Star. His durability and ability to play both ends of the floor are valuable in any late-game scenario, and he’s likely to be the second offensive scoring option, much like he was in Boston beyond Jayson Tatum.
Joel Embiid’s injury history makes him unreliable, and it could limit what kind of role he has in 2026-27. Still, as a former MVP and two-time scoring leader with career averages of 27.6 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 0.6 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game on 50.0% shooting, his presence at center remains a staple for the 76ers, and his health will play a big role in their success. Down the stretch of games, Embiid will be a frequent go-to option as someone who can get a bucket with ease.
Finally, there’s LeBron James. At 41, you can’t expect him to be leading the show, and he’ll often defer to his young teammates any chance he gets. Even so, LeBron’s IQ and playmaking skillset make him best with the ball in his hands, and the 76ers will look to him at times to call the shots and run the offense when needed.
Ultimately, if there are any players that might feel left out here, it’s V.J. Edgecombe. He was ascending into All-Star territory last season, but now he will have to share the spotlight with his new teammates. It will be a delicate balance to keep everyone happy, but it’s well worth the trouble for a chance to make the ultimate run.
