Here are four keys to the Philadelphia 76ers defeating the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday night.
The Philadelphia 76ers (24-21) are facing off against the Giannis Antetokounmpo-less Milwaukee Bucks (18-26) Tuesday night.
Here's a look at four keys to success for the 76ers:
1. Tyrese Maxey Needs To Break Free Of His Slump
Maxey played one of his worst games of the season against the Hornets Monday, finishing with just six points, seven assists, two rebounds, and a steal on 3 of 12 shooting in 25 minutes. This is not his only poor performance in recent weeks, as the two-time All-Star is struggling to live up to his standards.
With Embiid listed as questionable and George regressing offensively, Maxey is once again being called upon to do it all.
2. Prevent Ryan Rollins From Getting Hot
With Giannis Antetokounmpo sidelined with a calf strain for the foreseeable future, expect Rollins to assume a bigger offensive role for the Bucks in the midst of his breakout campaign. He is averaging 16.1 points on 45.9% shooting and 39.2% shooting from three-point range, but has exploded for 25+ points on plenty of occasions this season.
If George suits up, fans shouldn't be surprised to see him take on this key assignment given his impact on the defense so far this year.
3. The 76ers' Backcourt Has To Support Maxey Offensively
Whether it's V.J. Edgecombe, Quentin Grimes (questionable), or Jared McCain, another guard needs to step up alongside Maxey offensively. With Maxey in a bit of a slump and still playing a league-high 39.2 minutes per game, teams are beginning to figure out how to defend Philadelphia's backcourt when Embiid is absent.
Edgecombe and Grimes are averaging comfortably over 10 points per game this season but have rarely surged for big nights in 2026. Meanwhile, McCain got a good amount of touches in the blowout loss to the Hornets, which could be a sign of things going in the right direction for the struggling sophomore.
4. Joel Embiid Must Win The Frontcourt Battle If He Plays
Myles Turner and Bobby Portis make up one of the better center groups across the association, as both are averaging more than 12 points and five rebounds. Not to mention, each thrives in their own area of the game, with the former being a defensive force and the latter having a dangerous shot from three-point range.
As previously mentioned, Embiid is questionable but will have a tall task on both ends of the floor if he plays.
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