Philly Welcomes “Playoff” Kyle Lowry With Massive Cheer as Ex-NBA Champ Makes 76ers Debut

The Philadelphia 76ers are going head-to-head against the New York Knicks tonight. And they hope to start the second half of their season with a much-needed win. The Sixers’ season has been in jeopardy ever since their superstar, Joel Embiid, suffered a knee injury. However, the fans in Philly got something to cheer about as their latest signing, Kyle Lowry, made his Sixers debut tonight.

“Playoff” Kyle Lowry received a massive cheer and a standing ovation from the Sixers fans when he got subbed in tonight. The cheers got even louder when the Philadelphia native scored his first bucket as a Sixer. Lowry drove to the basket for a smooth reverse layup to beat the shot clock for his first 2 points of the night.

The Sixers added the former NBA Champion before heading into the All-Star break. After spending three seasons in Miami, the Heat traded Lowry to the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for Terry Rozier before the mid-season trade deadline. With no hopes of winning another Championship in Charlotte, Lowry reached a buyout with the Hornets and decided to take the free-agent route. He was soon picked up by the Sixers for the remainder of the 2023-24 season for $2.8 million. The addition of Lowry brings a veteran presence in the locker room along with Championship experience for the playoffs. Lowry has played only 37 games this season, averaging 8.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4 assists.

Kyle Lowry could elevate Tyrese Maxey’s game

The addition of Kyle Lowry to the Sixers roster will make them a more playoff-ready team because of his Championship experience. But more importantly, Lowry could help elevate the game of rising star Tyrese Maxey. The 23-year-old guard has turned into a superstar for the Sixers after the departure of James Harden. Maxey has been playing at an elite level all season, averaging 25.7 points, 6.4 assists, and 3.7 rebounds. He also got his career’s first All-Star nod this season. However, Maxey is still in his learning phase. Earlier this year, he revealed how playing alongside James Harden improved his game.

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“He taught me a lot. I appreciate him for it. I still talk to him to this day. He still critiques the stuff that I do. All I can do is say thank you to him and I appreciate him.” Maxey said in an interview. Kyle Lowry could have the same impact on Maxey’s game as Harden. While Harden helped Maxey play at an All-Star level, Lowry could teach him to handle pressure during the playoffs.

Even though Lowry is in the later stages of his career, his signing could be a game-changer for the Sixers.