Historic Start for Sixers hinges on Maxey-Edgecombe Backcourt
PHILADELPHIA — The 2024-25 Philadelphia 76ers have burst out of the gates in stunning fashion, riding a high-powered backcourt duo that has already etched a memorable mark in NBA history. In just three games, Tyrese Maxey and rookie VJ Edgecombe have combined for 182 points, the most by any starting backcourt through a team’s first three games since backcourts began being tracked in 1970-71, according to ESPN Research. The early-season surge has propelled Philadelphia to a 3-0 start, a remarkable turnaround from last season’s prolonged struggle.
The Numbers Behind the Early Arrival
Maxey has been at the center of the on-court blitz, piling up 43 points and eight assists in the latest win over the Orlando Magic, a 136-124 victory that kept Philadelphia undefeated early in the campaign. Edgecombe, continuing his ascent after being selected in the draft last season, added 26 points and seven assists. The two have formed a dynamic pairing that opponents are already taking seriously, even as Embiid works through a minutes restriction and occasional rest during back-to-backs.
What Edgecombe Brings
Edgecombe’s confidence is palpable. Averaging 25 points per game on roughly 50% shooting and 40% from three, he has shown a knack for reading angles, capitalizing on kick-outs, and converting opportunities created by Maxey’s aggressive attack. “I’m a student of the game,” Edgecombe said, emphasizing his film study and trust in his teammates. “I know where the shots are going to come from, and I’ve been able to capitalize on that.”
Maxey’s Leadership and Drive
Maxey’s response to the hot start has been measured and purposeful. After a season where the Sixers endured a long stretch of disappointment, he’s prioritizing team success over personal numbers. “We’re just trying to go out there and be aggressive and help us win,” he said, underscoring the shift in mindset that has defined the team through three games. His ability to create for himself and others remains a constant, as does his willingness to trust and feed Edgecombe when the moment calls for it.
Team Identity in a Fast, Versatile Era
Philadelphia has embraced a frenetic pace that favors guard play and multi-positional coverage. Even with players like Paul George and others sidelined in the early stretch of the season, the Sixers have leaned on their depth and tempo. Coach Nick Nurse has praised the group for contributing in waves, noting that no one can point to a clear negative when the ball is moving and bodies are pressing the pace. “The guys are playing extremely hard and you look at the box score and ask, who didn’t help us tonight? You couldn’t say anybody,” Nurse said after the win against Orlando.
Supporting Contributions and the Bigger Picture
Beyond Maxey and Edgecombe, Philadelphia has received valuable support that’s helped sustain these results. Kelly Oubre delivered a well-rounded night of 25 points and 10 rebounds, while Andre Drummond provided a critical late-minute spark in the win over Charlotte. The Sixers’ adaptability, with Embiid on a limited minutes plan, has become a feature rather than a flaw, demonstrating that the team is capable of growing its identity in real time.
Looking Ahead
The real test will come on the road as the team travels for back-to-back games, including a Tuesday matchup against the Washington Wizards. If Maxey and Edgecombe continue their pace, the Sixers could establish a new baseline for what this team can accomplish when its core group operates with cohesion and confidence. On a night when Embiid watched in sweats, the backcourt duo provided a blueprint for an aggressive, guard-driven attack that could carry Philadelphia through the early season’s uncertainties.
As Edgecombe pointed out with a smile, the stat is a reminder of how quickly a season can crystallize: “That’s a great stat to know.” For Sixers fans, it’s a sign that the team may be much more than a surprise—it could be the beginning of a sustained push toward meaningful contention this season.
