76ers' young backcourt having historic start to season

Not only are the Sixers guards lighting it up as a duo, but Maxey has the second-highest point total for three games in team history, behind Wilt Chamberlain. Rule of thumb for NBA stats: If the only comparable player is Wilt Chamberlain, a player is doing very, very well.

The 76ers might rethink their whole offense

With such exciting guards in the backcourt — and Kelly Oubre chipping in with 18 ppg — the 76ers might rethink their approach even when their injured stars come back. Can George and Embiid adjust to the fast-paced new-look Sixers?

It might be a boon to the older Sixers. If Embiid is still dealing with a bad knee, perhaps he can remake himself, specializing in playing defense and grabbing rebounds. With the speed and aggressiveness of Maxey and Edgecombe, Embiid could focus on throwing rebounds ahead to his streaking guards. He might not even have to jog past halfcourt.

For George, a versatile player and excellent spot-up shooter, he could also benefit from the young guards grabbing the attention of the defense. It's very possible these young teammates could keep their over-30 peers healthy for a playoff push.

The playoffs seem far more likely thanks to this hot start and a newly dangerous Philadelphia offense. Embiid and George are both on their way back, but considering how the season has started, the Sixers are in no hurry to get them back.