Tough break for the Philadelphia 76ers as their standout point guard, Tyrese Maxey, suffered a finger injury in a 125-116 loss to the Atlanta Hawks on March 7. The news isn't promising for Maxey's return this season.
Maxey, now 25, is grappling with a tendon injury in his right pinkie finger. According to ESPN's Shams Charania, he'll be reevaluated in three weeks. With just about a month left in the regular season, the 76ers might have to push forward without him.
The timing couldn't be worse for Philadelphia, who are deep in the playoff hunt. Sitting at 34-30 before their game against the Memphis Grizzlies, the 76ers hold the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference. The competition is fierce, with the Hawks, Hornets, Bucks, and Bulls all nipping at their heels.
Replacing Maxey is no small task. He's been in the midst of a career-best season, posting impressive stats: 29.0 points, 4.1 rebounds, 6.7 assists, and 2.0 steals per game, while shooting 46.1% from the field and 37.3% from three-point range over 61 games.
With Maxey sidelined for at least three weeks, the 76ers are likely to turn to Cameron Payne as the starting point guard. Quentin Grimes is expected to see more action in the backcourt, and rookie VJ Edgecombe could play a significant role moving forward.