Sixers star maxey faces extended absence due to hand injury

Philadelphia 76ers point guard Tyrese Maxey is sidelined for at least three weeks after suffering a tendon injury in his right hand's little finger. The team announced the setback Tuesday, a significant blow to a team already grappling with key player absences.

Maxey's injury derails 76ers' momentum

The injury occurred during Saturday's game against the Atlanta Hawks, a loss for Philadelphia (116-126) where Maxey collided with teammate Adem Bona with 16 seconds remaining. Maxey, averaging 29.0 points and 6.7 assists, will undergo further evaluation in three weeks. This is a recurring issue for the 24-year-old, who missed the entirety of last season with a sprained right finger.

The timing couldn’t be worse for the 76ers, who are already without Joel Embiid (right oblique strain) and Paul George (league suspension). Embiid is expected to miss his fifth consecutive game, while George is still several weeks away from returning.

Rookie guard VJ Edgecombe returned to action Tuesday following a three-game absence due to a bruised back. The Sixers currently sit in eighth place in the Eastern Conference (34-30) and face a tight schedule. With seven regular-season games remaining after March 31st, Maxey's recovery will be critical to their playoff aspirations. Failure to return in time could jeopardize his eligibility for NBA awards.

The 76ers have consulted multiple hand specialists regarding the injury. The team’s performance hinges on the health of its star players. The team’s depth will be severely tested in Maxey’s absence.