Steal: Tyrese Maxey (Kentucky) selected #21 by the Sixers
The final steal of the first round was Tyrese Maxey. In his only year at Kentucky, Maxey was an offensive spark plug and defensive magnet. He brings instant offense to the Sixers while also being able to defend the perimeter at an NBA level. His lateral quickness allows him to keep defenders in front of him on the defensive end while his ability to move with the ball on the offensive end can frustrate opponents.
Maxey recently began to rise on draft boards along with Kira Lewis Jr., reaching as high as the middle of the lottery. Lewis found himself drafted 13th while Maxey continued to wait into the middle of the first round. Teams continued to pass on the young guard, electing to go in a different direction. Until he was selected by the Sixers.
The fit and value that Maxey brings to the table will make an immediate impact on the Sixers organization desperate for bench scoring. At the next level, Maxey will control the offense and bring a much-needed punch to the second unit alongside Matisse Thybulle.
His skill on the offensive and defensive side of the ball will help him earn essential development minutes over the season while contributing to a legitimate contender. In regards to value, the once asset-rich Sixers organization has found themselves strapped for money and picks. During the day they were able to alleviate two contracts but had to trade draft capital in exchange, making it impossible to trade up for the Kentucky guard.
The organization was prepared to accept whatever fate the draft brought them. Many analysts believed that Tyrell Terry from Stanford would be the best available guard when they selected however, they found a falling Maxey land right in their lap.
Maxey should be the perfect compliment to Philadelphia’s All-Star duo of Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid, providing much-needed spacing on the offensive end. Under new coach Doc Rivers, Maxey should have no problem finding a significant role in the rotation and should make an impact on day one of the regular season.