Tyrese Maxey Gains New Power Forward Partner Dean Wade

**Tyrese Maxey** is set to share the floor with new teammate Dean Wade after the veteran big man praised Maxey’s speed and playmaking in a July 2026 interview, signaling Philadelphia’s push for a title in the 2026‑27 campaign.

Wade called Maxey “maybe the fastest person I’ve ever tried to guard,” noting the guard’s ability to explode past defenders. He highlighted Maxey’s evolution from a primary scorer to a player who can create off‑ball opportunities, saying the Sixers’ star “gets off the ball and makes other people better.” Wade’s comments came as the Sixers announced Wade’s three‑year deal, a move meant to bolster the frontcourt around Maxey’s guard play.

In the 2025‑26 season Maxey posted a 28.3‑point average, added 6.6 assists and grabbed 4.1 rebounds per game. Those numbers placed him among the league’s elite scorers and underscored why the Sixers view him as a cornerstone for their championship push. Wade’s remarks echo the sentiment that Maxey’s scoring will be complemented by his growing vision, a skill set that should thrive with Wade’s low‑usage, defensive‑oriented presence.

Mike Gansey, the new President of Basketball Operations, made Wade his first free‑agency signing, hoping the Kansas State alum will provide spacing and rebounding. Wade emphasized that playing alongside a “competitively intense” player like Maxey will raise his own game, noting the guard’s relentless drive to win every night. The pairing aims to give the Sixers a balanced attack-Maxey’s perimeter threat paired with Wade’s interior hustle.

The Sixers are targeting the Eastern Conference crown, hoping to topple the New York Knicks and end a title drought dating back to 1983. Adding Wade gives Philadelphia a versatile big who can defend the paint while stretching the floor, potentially freeing Maxey to operate more from the three‑point line. Wade believes that “giving him a little extra space on the 3‑point line and opening up the paint” will let Maxey’s game reach a new level, a factor that could tilt close playoff series in Philadelphia’s favor.

Both players will report to training camp in early October, where they’ll begin integrating Wade’s defensive schemes with Maxey’s offensive sets. Observers will watch how quickly Wade adapts to Maxey’s speed and whether the guard can exploit the spacing Wade creates. If the chemistry clicks, the Sixers could see a noticeable uptick in offensive efficiency and defensive stability as the regular season unfolds.

While the interview focused on Wade’s perspective, Maxey has previously spoken about valuing teammates who push him to improve. The guard’s willingness to share the ball and create for others aligns with Wade’s desire for “extra space” and “more open paint.” Their mutual respect suggests a collaborative environment that could translate into on‑court success.

The Sixers’ front office hopes the Maxey‑Wade combination will be a catalyst for a deep playoff run. With Maxey already delivering All‑Star‑level production, Wade’s addition may be the missing piece that turns potential into a championship reality.