Why James Harden will cause Tyrese Maxey to regress

Why James Harden will cause Tyrese Maxey to regress: Harden’s potential impact on Maxey

When Harden runs a pick and roll, most of his teammates stand behind the arc for floor spacing purposes. For example, during the 2016-17 season, Eric Gordon, Ryan Anderson, and Trevor Ariza took over 50 percent of their shots from behind the arc, averaging at least 6.9 per game. Therefore, Maxey is likely to spend most of his minutes with Harden on the court as a floor spacer.

Unfortunately, Maxey does not have a good track record from behind the arc. He shot 29.2 percent from behind the arc during his lone collegiate season on 3.6 attempts per game. He struggled in his first season as a professional, shooting 30.1 percent on 3.5 attempts per game.

However, Maxey has elevated his three-point shooting percentage to 39.9 percent on 3.5 attempts per game this season. That being said, Maxey’s track record suggests his shooting should take a step back sooner rather than later despite the improvement.

Therefore, the 76ers should consider making Maxey Harden’s backup,thus increasing the likelihood that he will stay in the role of ball-handler, as opposed to being a floor-spacer. In conclusion, the arrival of Harden will cause Maxey to regress, but it will be through no fault of his own.