When the game was on the line, the Philadelphia 76ers had a wonderful opportunity to even the score or perhaps even win it. Down 118-116 to the Phoenix Suns after a bucket from Kevin Durant, the Sixers had exactly 24 seconds to make their play.
But as the clock ran down, all eyes were on Paul George, who had the ball in his hands. The question was, would he go for the last shot or rely on Tyrese Maxey?
The 9-time All-Star backed himself despite having a rusty return performance. After running down the majority of the remaining time, he attempted a mid-range jumper but failed to make it and the Suns claimed a tight victory.
The result left the Sixers with a 1-5 record to start off the season, and many fans wondered why George had not passed the ball to Maxey, who had already scored 32 points and was shooting well.
PAUL GEORGE MISSES AFTER A CLUTCH KD BUCKET. SUNS WIN š„š³ pic.twitter.com/FsClTLZ57A
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) November 5, 2024
Patrick Beverley was not impressed with George’s decision as he wrote: “PG my brother. Love him to death. But Maxey gotta have that last shot. I know it’s hierarchy and I respect it, on his bday and a 30 point night.”
PG my brother. Love him to death. But Maxey gotta have that last shot. I know itās hierarchy and I respect it, on his bday and a 30 point nightšš @PatBevPod
— Patrick Beverley (@patbev21) November 5, 2024
This sentiment resonated with many fans who felt that Maxey should have been allowed to take the final shot, especially given his performance throughout the game.
It is important for players to recognize when others have a better chance of scoring. George had 15 points on the night, he was 4-14 from the field and 1-7 from three-point range.
The Sixers have a long way to go this season, and if they want to turn things around, they will need to prioritize team success over individual glory.
For the 76ers, the loss worsened an already difficult start to the season. But overall, having George back on the court has to be viewed as a positive. Hopefully, Joel Embiid will return soon too.
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