The Philadelphia 76ers may have just suffered a devastating blow at the worst possible time. Star guard Tyrese Maxey has been sidelined after suffering a sprain to his right fifth finger, leaving Philadelphia without its top offensive engine for at least the next couple of games.
The injury occurred late in the 76ers’ loss to the Atlanta Hawks, when Maxey collided with a teammate while diving for a loose ball in the final seconds of the game. He immediately grabbed his right hand in pain and was unable to finish the contest.
While initial reports suggest Maxey will miss at least two games, the situation could become more serious depending on further testing and how the injury responds to treatment.
Why this injury matters so much
Maxey has been the driving force behind the 76ers offense this season. The young guard has taken on an even larger role with injuries and absences affecting other stars, emerging as one of the NBA’s most explosive scorers.
In fact, Maxey is having the best season of his career, averaging around 29 points, nearly 7 assists, and close to 4 rebounds per game while becoming the team’s primary playmaker and late-game closer.
Without him, the Sixers’ offense suddenly looks very different.
A brutal timing for Philadelphia
The timing of Maxey’s injury could not be worse. Philadelphia is in the middle of a tight Eastern Conference playoff race and currently fighting to avoid the play-in tournament.
And Maxey isn’t the only problem.
The team has already dealt with major setbacks involving its other stars. Joel Embiid has been battling injuries throughout the season, while Paul George has missed time due to suspension and other issues.
With Maxey now sidelined, the Sixers suddenly find themselves dangerously thin in the backcourt.
Who steps up now?
Without Maxey running the offense, Philadelphia will likely lean on a mix of role players and veterans to handle the ball. Guards like Quentin Grimes and Cam Payne could see expanded roles.
But replacing Maxey’s production won’t be easy.
He’s not just the team’s leading scorer — he’s the player who controls the pace, creates shots, and takes over when the offense stalls.
The bigger concern
For the 76ers, the biggest fear isn’t just missing a couple games.
It’s the possibility that this injury could linger.
Finger injuries can be tricky for shooters and ball-handlers, especially for a guard who relies heavily on his scoring touch and control of the ball. If Maxey struggles to return quickly or play at full strength, Philadelphia’s postseason hopes could take a serious hit.
For now, the team is hoping the injury proves minor.
But if the absence stretches longer than expected, the 76ers may suddenly find themselves fighting just to stay in the playoff picture.
And that’s a scenario no one in Philadelphia wants to see.
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