Tyrese Maxey is having the standout season of his career, taking a clear step forward for the Philadelphia 76ers.
A fresh contender has emerged in the 2025-26 NBA regular-season MVP conversation: Tyrese Maxey.
He is averaging 32.5 points, 4.9 rebounds and 7.7 assists per game, hitting 45.6% from the field and 41.3% from deep – all career highs for him.
But there is another number that really shows how much he has elevated his game this season.
Tyrese Maxey leads the NBA in non-free throw points per game
In today’s NBA, drawing fouls has become an art form. Joel Embiid and James Harden are two of the best examples of stars who have made a name for themselves by their ability to consistently get to the line.
But not everyone is a fan of that approach. There are fans who prefer players who find different ways to score. Consequently, their chances of securing the MVP award could be negatively impacted.
And in that context, Maxey is standing out. He is showing he can fill it up without needing a steady stream of free throws.
Maxey is putting up 25.38 points per game without free throws, more than MVP contenders Luka Doncic (24.73) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (24.69).
Tyrese Maxey shines again, but the 76ers fall short against the Toronto Raptors
Maxey is on track for his most impressive season yet, but the 76ers are still trying to find their rhythm.
Jared McCain has yet to hit his stride this season, and the 76ers dropped their sixth game of the year, coming up short against the Toronto Raptors.
Despite the loss, Maxey put in another strong showing, finishing with 24 points, two rebounds, and nine assists over 36 minutes.
But it was not enough. Philadelphia now sit at 8-6 heading into a highly anticipated clash with the Milwaukee Bucks.
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