"Sixers not beating their all-ambulance team allegations" - NBA fans abuzz over Tyrese Maxey's injury amid Joel Embiid suspension
After dealing with injuries to Paul George and Joel Embiid to start the season, the Philadelphia 76ers will be without Tyrese Maxey for the next few weeks. On Thursday, Shams Charania broke news that Maxey would be out for "a couple of weeks" with a right hamstring injury.
So far this season, Maxey has stepped up significantly in Embiid's absence. Although his shooting percentages have dipped from last season, he’s having a breakout year, averaging a career-high 27.6 points per game.
With Embiid reportedly set to return to action on Tuesday against the New York Knicks, the latest news regarding Maxey is another crushing blow for the team.
Immediately, the NBA community began to weigh in on the news and what Maxey's absence means for a 76ers team trying to get back on track.
"Sixers not beating their all-ambulance team allegations," one wrote.
"WTF?! Just when Embiid is returning, now Maxey goes down too," another added.
"That team is fr cursed by the basketball gods," one added.
Some fans pointed out that the absence of Tyrese Maxey over the coming weeks will likely put Philly in a tough spot when it comes to the standings.
"76ers might be cooked and we’re not even 3 weeks into the season," one wrote.
"Ooooof their season might be over," one added.
Looking at Tyrese Maxey's play so far this season and 76ers' schedule as the team looks to get back on track
The Philadelphia 76ers started this season with a 1-6 record, putting them in last place in the Eastern Conference alongside the Milwaukee Bucks.
The story of the season so far for Philly has been injuries. After acquiring Paul George this offseason, hope was high for the 76ers entering the 2024-25 preseason.
In addition to a knee injury sidelining George to start the year, the 76ers have also been without Joel Embiid as the former MVP deals with a knee injury.
Tyrese Maxey has taken his game to a new level this season. On Oct. 27, he posted his sixth career 40+ point game, scoring 45 to secure Philly’s only win against the Pacers. Maxey scored over 20 points in six of seven games, including two 32-point performances.
While Joel Embiid is expected to return Tuesday after his three-game suspension, Philly’s struggles may persist if Maxey remains sidelined.