What happened: Maxey opened the 2026-27 campaign with end-to-end production, highlighted by a recovery block on tip-off night and a fourth-quarter and-1 in the opener. He followed that effort with a game-high 32 points to fuel a 114-106 comeback victory.

Why it matters: Reliable two-way play at the point of attack has anchored a 3-1 start through the first week of the regular season while offsetting day-to-day frontcourt availability. Sustaining that defensive activity alongside primary ball-handling duties eases the burden on the reserve rotation.

What to watch: PHI-IND tips off Wednesday at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN.