The Summer Sixers hit the court for their second Summer League game in Las Vegas against the Atlanta Hawks in a game that ended up a thriller.
Although this was only a summer league game, many fans wanted to get revenge against the Hawks for ending the Sixers’ season in the Eastern Conference semifinals. With the Hawks leading much of this game, the Sixers fought back and earned a hard-fought 96-88 victory in OT. Tyrese Maxey led the way for the Sixers with 31 pts, 6 rebs, and 5 ast. Isaiah Joe contributed 21 pts, 5 rebs, 4 ast, followed by Paul Reed scoring 21 pts and pulling down 12 rebs. Here are some observations from the matchup against the Hawks:
Tyrese Maxey
Tyrese Maxey had the ultimate green light, and he’s earned it with the way he played for the Sixers last season. The coaching staff clearly wants Maxey to work on his shot and encourage him to shoot 3-pointers to build confidence. He pushed the pace for the team and was one of the few players who were able to score consistently in the first half. His outside shot wasn’t falling, but he still was aggressively attacking the basket on makes and misses.
Maxey also had a pretty solid game defensively, and you can tell he has been working on that side of his game. He mentioned in last game’s post-game presser that defense is something he has been working on. He has been asking teammates Ben Simmons, Danny Green, and Matisse Thybulle for tips. Maxey had a great block that ended up not counting but showed what type of athleticism he possesses.
Paul Reed
BBall Paul! His high-energy motor was on display this game. He controlled the board snatching down 6 offensive rebounds. He was efficient on offense and worked hard defensively as well. He showed good footwork on offense and the ability to finish at the rim. The way Paul Reed played in this game will be how he will have to play to carve out minutes in the rotation in the regular season. His hustle and energy will be something this team will need.
Isaiah Joe
Joe continued to show improvement in his offensive game. We know he is a knockdown shooter, but he showed he has more to his game than that. When Maxey wasn’t handling the ball, Joe was the main ball handler. He showed some flashes while running the pick and roll. He had some nice passes out of the pick and roll and attacked the rim when the opportunity presented itself.
Jaden Springer
Springer was rather underwhelming in this game. The rookie just didn’t look comfortable on offense. He had a nice step-back jumper and reverse layup in regulation. He also had a layup with two people flying past him to block his shot in OT. There were few fast breaks where Springer pushed the pace but ended up turning the ball over. The rookie will learn to play through games like these, and he will only improve from here.
Best of the Rest
Aaron Henry showed some versatility on offense and defense. He had a coast-to-coast play that really showed what fans are excited about. Rayjon Tucker didn’t do much this game, but boy, can he jump out the building. He needs a dunk contest invite in his mailbox when they return home from Vegas. Braxton Key hit some huge shots in the fourth quarter to keep the blue and white in the game. It wouldn’t be surprising if he earned a spot on the Bluecoats roster this upcoming season.
The Sixers will be back in action in Las Vegas against the Celtics this Saturday at 5 PM EST looking to start 3-0 in Summer League play.
