76ers' Tyrese Maxey Could Miss Thursday's Game vs. Miami Heat

The Philadelphia 76ers could find themselves shorthanded on Thursday night when they take on the Miami Heat for the final time this season. According to the team’s injury report, the standout guard Tyrese Maxey is currently questionable as he battles neck stiffness.

When the Sixers faced the Boston Celtics on Tuesday night, Maxey turned in a near-40-minute shift. Although he played for a majority of the game, the young guard had a tough time against Boston, as he made just two of the eight shots he attempted from the field. Maxey finished the night with five points, four rebounds, and one assist.

After the game, there wasn't any indication that the young guard was dealing with any setbacks. However, it seems Maxey could get a night off on Thursday as the Sixers approach the postseason.

With the Boston Celtics defeating the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday night, the Sixers locked up the third seed in the Eastern Conference. Without a way to move up or move back in the standings, the Sixers have to be careful during the final few games of the stretch and avoid any potential setbacks.

This season, Maxey appeared in 60 games for the Sixers. Early on in the year, he suffered his first big setback as he dealt with a fracture in his foot. After appearing in the first 15 games of the season, Maxey missed 18 straight games.

Since returning to the court on December 30, Maxey played in 45 of the Sixers’ previous 46 games. Considering Maxey has averaged 32 minutes on the court during the 45-game stretch, an off night could be necessary for the young guard, as rest would be beneficial before the playoffs.

Justin Grasso covers the Philadelphia 76ers for All76ers, a Sports Illustrated channel. You can follow him for live updates on Twitter: @JGrasso_.

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