Monday’s first-round doubleheader was a treat to watch for every NBA fan around the world. But the matchups did not come without their fair share of controversy. While the Madison Square Garden was buzzing with electricity after the Knicks’ Game 2 win, the Sixers blatantly questioned the officiating conducted in the final seconds. After sleeping on the tough loss and waking up to a brand new Most Improved Player trophy, Tyrese Maxey finally spoke about the refereeing blunders that arguably cost Philly the game last night.

Maxey made a video appearance on Inside The NBA to receive his MIP honors from the esteemed panel. But the superstar guard did not leave without addressing his thoughts about the controversial officiating in Game 2 at MSG. According to the NBA’s last 2-minute report, Maxey was fouled not once, but twice on the crucial last-minute play that led to the Knicks’ game-winning three-pointer. However, Maxey did not want to “dwell” in the past and looked forward to Game 3 at home, saying, “It is what it is. It happened. You gotta let it go.”

NBA’s report acknowledged that initially, Maxey’s jersey was pulled by Brunson on the inbound pass, affecting his ability to secure the ball. Just two seconds later, Josh Hart stepped forward in Maxey’s space, initiating lower-body contact and causing the Sixers guard to fall to the floor. But referees turned a blind eye to both fouls and let the play continue for a Knicks’ possession. However, Maxey claimed if they keep getting bothered by what happened, they will suffer further. “We don’t wanna go down 0-3,” Maxey added.

Tyrese Maxey reflects on winning MIP and the upcoming Game 3 in front of an ‘electric’ atmosphere

After two nightmare losses at MSG, Maxey is ready to take the series home and play in front of Philly fans. We know how passionate 76ers fans can be, and Maxey expects nothing less from the home crowd on Thursday. “I expect nothing but rowdy and electric things in Wells Fargo.” More importantly, a win on Thursday is crucial for the Sixers because it will be almost impossible to come back from a 0-3 deficit. So, the Sixers need all the help they can get on Thursday to take down the Knicks at home.

Meanwhile, Maxey can also prepare for a hero’s welcome after winning the MIP trophy. “It feels great,” Maxey remarked after winning the prestigious award. He believes the award is an acknowledgment of the hard work he puts in the gym every night to get better at his craft. And that is visible from his performance on the court this season. From a 20-point scorer last season to a whopping 25.9 points per game scorer this year, Maxey has come a long way in a short span.

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He has also risen to the occasion and become a great leader while Joel Embiid missed out because of a knee injury. So, Embiid’s injury could have been a blessing in disguise for the All-Star guard! In the first-round series, Maxey is averaging a clear-cut 34 points per game, elevating his game to the next level. That is a true sign of a future superstar.

Hopefully, his performance will now translate into some playoff victories for the Sixers, as their fans anticipate them going all the way.