Kyle Lowry, the six-time NBA All-Star nearing the twilight of his career with the Philadelphia 76ers, remains hopeful about extending his playoff journey this season. While the team currently holds the sixth position in the Eastern Conference standings, 25-year-old point guard Tyrese Maxey has pledged to secure a postseason berth for Lowry in what could be his final campaign.
Maxey’s Stellar Performance Lifts the 76ers
This season, Maxey has been in outstanding form, delivering an average of 28.8 points, 6.9 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game over 49 outings. His impressive play has propelled him up the NBA MVP rankings, rising as high as fifth place before recently slipping to tenth. Despite fluctuations in the MVP ladder, Maxey’s confidence in the Sixers’ playoff chances remains unwavering.
Reflecting on their conversations, Lowry shared a moment of reassurance from Maxey:
“From last year, he told me, ‘Kyle, don’t worry about it. We won’t miss the playoffs, and I got you in your last season, or whatever it is, you will be in the playoffs no matter what.’ So I was like, ‘alright you got it,’”
Lowry recounted regarding Maxey’s promise.
Respect and Admiration Between Teammates
The bond between Lowry and Maxey highlights a sincere dynamic where the younger player is motivated to carry the veteran through the postseason run. Lowry, often hailed as the greatest Raptor in franchise history, commands deep respect from both peers and fans. His notable contributions to Toronto’s 2019 NBA championship cemented his legacy firmly in the league.
Lowry’s recent visit back to Toronto exemplified this admiration, as the home crowd honored him with a standing ovation during the Sixers’ 115-102 victory. Though Lowry only appeared for under two minutes, entering the game in its final moments, the ovation underscored what he meant to the city and the Raptors franchise.
Maxey’s Emotional Response to Lowry’s Tribute
After Lowry replaced Maxey on the court, the younger guard showed visible emotion over the recognition given to his seasoned teammate. Describing the moment, Maxey admitted:
“He deserved every bit of it … I told him I was about to start crying,”
expressing how meaningful the tribute was for Lowry.
Maxey’s heartfelt dedication to securing a playoff spot for Lowry, despite the current uncertainties, embodies the passion and optimism driving the 76ers this season. The NBA’s history of unpredictable narratives offers hope that Lowry’s final playoff appearance is still within reach.
Kyle Lowry on Tyrese Maxey:
"From last year he told me Kyle don't worry about it. We won't miss the playoffs and I got you in your last season or whatever it is you will be in the playoffs no matter what. So I was like alright you got it" pic.twitter.com/EE8xC7vAgv
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) February 7, 2026
