What happened: Maxey trained with James before Philadelphia drafted him in 2020. Their sessions included a race to the gym after Maxey once arrived earlier than James.
Why it matters: That familiarity could ease Philadelphia's integration of a new playmaker. Maxey's All-NBA Third Team season makes the partnership central to the 2026-27 lineup.
By the numbers: Maxey averaged 28 points and six assists in 2025-26.
What to watch: Watch how Philadelphia divides ballhandling duties during training camp and preseason.