PHILADELPHIA -- Just before the Philadelphia 76ers tipped off against the Memphis Grizzlies-a game they took 139-129-they got hit with some tough news about Tyrese Maxey. The All-Star guard is sidelined with a tendon injury in his right finger, and he'll be re-evaluated in three weeks. This comes as another setback for the Sixers, who are already missing Paul George and Joel Embiid, as they aim to secure a top-six spot in the Eastern Conference.
Rookie VJ Edgecombe made his return on Tuesday after missing three games with a lumbar contusion. He’s part of the squad tasked with filling the void left by Maxey.
"You can't replace Tyrese Maxey," Edgecombe said. "He’s unique.
But we know he’d want us to just go out there and play. Injured or not, he’s going to support us.
He won’t be down about it."
Maxey has been on a tear this season, averaging 29.0 points, 6.7 assists, and 4.1 rebounds, shooting 37.3% from deep. With 61 games under his belt, he needs to play at least four more to qualify for end-of-season awards, including All-NBA honors.
Coach Nick Nurse acknowledged the impact of the injury. "It's a huge blow for him," Nurse said.
"He's having an All-NBA season. We’re hoping for a quick recovery so he can get back without any issues.
It's a bind with other guys out, but hopefully, these weeks will fly by."
The Sixers will need others to step up and maintain their position in the East. Cam Payne is one player who’s showing promise, dropping 32 points on a perfect 8-for-8 from beyond the arc in the win over the Grizzlies.
"It sucks, but we have to be ready," Payne said about Maxey's absence. "I’ve broken a finger before, so I know how it feels. We’ve got to stay ready and find ways to win."
Kelly Oubre Jr., now in his third season with the Sixers, is no stranger to dealing with injuries around him. This season is no exception, and he’s prepared to help fill the gap left by Maxey.
"We need gutsy wins like tonight," Oubre said. "It’s not going to be pretty.
We’ve faced adversity before, and we’ve got to just make it happen. We’re praying for his speedy recovery."
Next up for the Sixers is a road game against the East-leading Detroit Pistons on Thursday. Even without their stars, Edgecombe and the team are ready for the challenge.
"We’re grateful to be in the NBA and have a chance to push for the playoffs," Edgecombe added. "It hurts to lose him, but it’s next man up. We’re aiming for a good run while he’s out and hoping for a speedy recovery for both him and Joel."