The Philadelphia 76ers have put together their first back-to-back wins of the new calendar year, but a spate of injuries looms as they prepare to host the surging Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday night.
With Joel Embiid sidelined and Paul George now ruled out due to a jammed left pinky, the 76ers will again challenge Tyrese Maxey to provide significant offensive production. Yet, Maxey may find it challenging to post another high-volume outing against a Lakers squad riding its longest winning streak since early November.
Here’s a featured Maxey prop bet on DraftKings Sportsbook for Tuesday’s game in Philadelphia.
Best Tyrese Maxey Prop Bet on DraftKings Sportsbook
Under 37.5 Points + Assists (-125)
Maxey has averaged 31.3 points, 5.3 assists and 3.3 rebounds in three games without George since the start of the new year. While his numbers reflect a significant role in the offense, this matchup against the Lakers poses a stiffer test. Los Angeles is on a four-game winning streak, fueled by a revamped defense and the inside dominance of Anthony Davis. In the Lakers’ 112-107 victory at Charlotte on Monday, Davis delivered a 42-point, 23-rebound masterpiece, underscoring the team’s commitment on both ends of the court.
The absence of George and Embiid should afford Maxey more opportunities, but it also places a spotlight on him for the Lakers’ defensive game plan. LeBron James and Davis provide leadership on the defensive end, while Jarred Vanderbilt — recently returned from injury — adds versatility on the perimeter. With limited support around Maxey, the Lakers can zero in on him, making it harder for him to generate consistent scoring or playmaking.
Philadelphia’s recent success, including a 132-129 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers and a 109-97 road victory against the Chicago Bulls, hinges on big performances from Maxey. However, he’ll need to contend with a Lakers defense holding opponents to just 105.8 points per game over their current winning streak. Given the increased pressure and the Lakers’ momentum, expecting Maxey to stay under 37.5 combined points and assists is a reasonable proposition.
If Maxey can navigate Los Angeles’ attention and maintain his recent form, the 76ers have a shot at a third straight victory. But against a locked-in Lakers unit, banking on a slightly less explosive performance from the young guard is a bet worth considering.
