The Sixers' kicked off this season's Media Day at their practice facility in Camden, New Jersey on Friday morning. A lot of focus early on were on updates from stars Joel Embiid and Paul George. The two stars gave updates on their current health, when they expect to be on the court, and what their roles will be going into the new season. A common theme that the two veteran stars shared was stepping up as a mentor with a roster of young players on the horizon.
The Sixers have young players who are lined up to have an integral role on the team this upcoming season. There are expectations for players like Jared McCain, Adem Bona, and VJ Edgecombe to make significant contributions to a team striving for a championship. When asked about VJ Edgecombe, Joel Embiid had high praise.
"I like him a lot," Embiid said. "I like his background...he's an amazing kid."
Embiid went on to say that at this point in his career, he wants to mentor the younger players and continue to step up as a leader "by showing them the way and learn from the mistakes I've made"
George discussed his role as a team leader and mentor for the upcoming year when asked.
"I think just continue to be a leader," George began. "I think this year is a better role for me. Coming into this, I know the situation. I know where I'm needed... [I'm] comfortable within the locker room, with the coaching staff, front office, and what role I can play as a veteran and a leader in developing our young guys and get them as prepared as possible."
Although he's only entering his sixth season, Tyrese Maxey is already long established as a leader of this team and is looking to mentor and improve his leadership for the upcoming season.
Last season, Maxey took on a greater role than ever with veterans like Embiid, George, Lowry, and Gordon in and out of the lineup. He's been more vocal and looks to build a standard for the team going forward.
"The biggest thing that I'm trying to accomplish is to be the standard," Maxey said. "Like this is who we are every single day, no matter who plays, no matter who doesn't play...and then building a camaraderie and brotherhood off the court. "
The Sixers have had an injection of youth, and in order for them to get where they want to go, they will have to lean on them to get through the rigorous 82-game season. When the team's stars pour into the youth, providing the right leadership and mentoring, it will only give them confidence and help them contribute significantly.
There are times where veterans could be more competitive and not want to share knowledge with the younger guys on the team but not in this case. Embiid and George can see that they need to lean on their youth in order to win, and their investment into the future of the Sixers could prove to pay off.
