When LeBron James chose to take his talents to south Philadelphia, it was a decision that would force everyone else on the Sixers to adapt, to sacrifice, and to make way for James’ immense talents and preternatural passing ability.

There is no player whose role will change more than that of Tyrese Maxey, who has been the defacto lead ball handler and primary initiator since James Harden forced his way out of Philadelphia. In the three years since Harden left Maxey has averaged 26.9 points and 6.3 assists per game, making a pair of All-Star appearances and earning his first All-NBA selection.

Between the departure of Harden and the frequent absences of Joel Embiid, Maxey has been forced to generate just about all of the Sixers’ half-court offense over the last few years.That makes it easy to forget just how dynamic of an off-ball player Tyrese Maxey was earlier in his career.

Those who worry about Maxey’s role in the new-look Sixers are overlooking this fact. It’s not that Maxey is a point guard whose game will suffer as he makes way for an aging, but brilliant, passer. The reality is that Tyrese Maxey is one of the most malleable and adaptable star players in all of basketball, and it is Maxey who will benefit the most from the addition of James, in spite of the fact that LeBron will take the ball out of Maxey’s hands.

Here are some reasons why Tyrese Maxey should excel in his new role.

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