The early success of rookie VJ Edgecombe has improved the Philadelphia 76ers’ chances of success this season. Philadelphia received criticism entering the season for Joel Embiid having a minutes restriction and Paul George being unable to play for the first week and counting. However, the 76ers have thrived early to start with an undefeated 4-0 record thanks to Tyrese Maxey and Edgecombe.
The rookie has impressed with averages of 22.3 points, 5.8 rebounds and 5.5 assists, creating excitement around the team. Edgecombe showed some bold confidence when recently asked about how high he thinks the ceiling can be for Philadelphia this season. Championship goals are already on his mind because of the team’s talent level.
“With big fella [Embiid] back out there, I think we’re gonna win the chip if you ask me,” Edgecombe said. “I don’t care what anyone got to say though.”
The early success has led to more respect for the 76ers, but pundits and fans still rank them significantly below the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers so far.
Edgecombe & Maxey Leading New 76ers Energy
The biggest reason for skepticism surrounding Philadelphia entering the season is that the past few years have been defined by Embiid’s health. Either the 76ers have a good record and hope to contend if he’s healthy, or they fall apart and struggle to stay relevant during his injuries. Edgecombe and Maxey becoming a must-watch backcourt has changed that dynamic by providing more depth.
Maxey deserves early MVP consideration for being the team’s best player and taking a major leap forward. His incredible averages of 37.5 points, 8.3 assists and 3.8 rebounds tell only part of the story. Maxey’s clutch shots and fourth-quarter heroics have helped the team pile up early victories and take an early lead in the Eastern Conference standings.
Edgecombe has become the perfect backcourt mate for Maxey, as both feature explosive offensive styles. Their confidence comes from being able to light up the stat sheet and give the 76ers a much better offense than anything they put on the court last season. The short sample size warrants skepticism, but they keep finding ways to win.
Can Philadelphia Prove Edgecombe Right?
The question stemming from Edgecombe’s commentary is whether he’s right about Philadelphia having a chance to contend for the NBA championship. Edgecombe’s words likely won’t lead 76ers fans to expect a title, but they do put the team in the conversation. Only two Eastern Conference teams have earned true respect as contenders, and usually another one or two join that group during the season.
Outside of New York and Cleveland, no other team has a higher ceiling if things break right. Edgecombe made sure to note that his prediction depends on Embiid’s health. The former MVP has put up impressive numbers over the last few games, but he’ll need to stay healthy once his minutes restriction ends.