Why James Harden will cause Tyrese Maxey to regress

By Zamir Bueno | Feb 14, 2022

MIAMI, FLORIDA - MAY 13: Tyrese Maxey #0 of the Philadelphia 76ers in action against the Miami Heat during the first quarter at American Airlines Arena on May 13, 2021 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

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INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – JANUARY 05: James Harden #13 of the Brooklyn Nets shoots the ball during the game against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on January 05, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

Why James Harden will cause Tyrese Maxey to regress: Harden’s ball dominance

Unfortunately, the arrival of James Harden will push his strengths into the background. Harden is a player that is used to having the ball in his hands for most of the game. He has been in the top 10 in touches per game since 2016, averaging 88.8 touches per game. When Harden has the ball in his hands, he holds it for a long time.

Harden has also been in the top 5 in average seconds per touch, holding the ball for 6.1 seconds each time he touches the ball. More importantly, Harden has thrived in the particular play type where guards are featured in the 76ers offense.

Philadelphia currently spends 17.4 percent of their possessions in the pick and roll, averaging 18.4 per game through their first 56 outings. Maxey is the primary pick and roll ball handler for the 76ers, averaging 6.7 possessions per game. However, Harden is most likely to become the team’s new primary pick and roll ball-handler due to his experience with the role.

Harden has spent 29.7 percent of his possessions in this play type since 2015, averaging 8.1 per game. He has been efficient, shooting 46.9 percent on 5.2 shots per game. Harden has generated a significant amount of production as a pick and roll ball handler, averaging 7.9 points per game – 26.1 percent of his scoring output.