LeBron James, Tyrese Maxey
Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James has built a reputation for studying the league beyond his own locker room, and this week he made it clear which young guard has truly caught his attention. During Tuesday’s episode of Mind the Game, James spoke at length about player development around the NBA, singling out Tyrese Maxey as a prime example of steady, intentional growth, per Bleacher Report.
James framed the conversation around players who continue stacking progress year after year, not just those enjoying a brief spike. In Maxey’s case, James pointed to firsthand experience, noting the summers they have spent training together and the habits he has seen up close.
“He’s been taking a leap after leap after leap,” James said. “Every morning we’re in the gym early. His dedication shows up every single day. He loves the game, and he’s taking full advantage of his opportunity in Philly.”
LeBron James with big praise for the leap Tyrese Maxey has taken this season
“I’ve worked out with him over the last few summers and every morning when in the gym around 5 AM and you see his dedication. A guy who just loves the game and has taken full advantage of his… pic.twitter.com/q0jgIwyjBT
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) January 6, 2026
LeBron Details the Work Behind Maxey’s Rise
The praise carried weight because it came from direct observation rather than distant admiration. James emphasized that Maxey’s consistency, not just talent, separates him. Beyond production, he highlighted Maxey’s character, calling him as impressive off the floor as he is on it.
That growth has shown clearly this season. After dealing with injuries last year, Maxey has responded with the most productive stretch of his career. The 25-year-old guard is averaging career highs across the board, including 31.1 points per game, while also setting personal bests in rebounds, assists, and steals. His expanded role has not slowed his efficiency or impact, reinforcing James’ point that offseason work translates when the season begins.
For James, who is navigating the later chapters of his own career, watching that type of development resonates. “I love the improvement,” he said. “I love seeing guys apply what they put in during the summer and take advantage of their situation.”
All-Star Voting Reflects Maxey’s Momentum
Maxey’s surge has also surfaced in All-Star voting, where he remains firmly in the conversation among Eastern Conference guards. Early returns showed strong support, though New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson currently leads the position after a significant push from Knicks fans.
The numbers from the most recent stretch underline how close the race remains. Brunson averaged 27.4 points, 5.4 assists, and 3.2 rebounds over five games, earning Player of the Month honors for December. He received 875,896 votes in the latest count. Maxey, meanwhile, posted an even louder week statistically, averaging 33.0 points on 57 percent shooting with 8.0 assists and 6.5 rebounds across four games. His vote total stood at 836,529, fewer than 40,000 behind Brunson.
That performance earned Maxey Eastern Conference Player of the Week honors and reinforced the momentum James referenced. With the All-Star Game still weeks away, the gap remains manageable if Philadelphia fans respond.
James’ comments framed Maxey’s season as more than a hot stretch. From elite peers to league-wide recognition, the message stayed consistent: sustained improvement earns respect, and Maxey has done exactly that.