Report: Maxey, Scott Test Positive for COVID

The Sixers held their first practice as a team Sunday afternoon, and are already facing issues with COVID-19. Reports have emerged that first-round pick Tyrese Maxey and forward Mike Scott have both tested positive. Paul Hudrick of 97.3 ESPN has confirmed both reports.

This shortened offseason already put rookies at a disadvantage, and now Maxey will have to clear protocol before he is able to take the floor with his new team. The Sixers kick off the preseason in six days, and it looks like they might not have the services of their first-round pick.

Although Scott has been with the team, this impacts him greatly as well. With a new coaching staff coming in, there are rotation spots up for grabs. Now having to miss time could negatively affect Scott's chances of securing a rotation spot before the start of the regular season.

With the complete makeover the team has gone through in a short time, missing players is not the best way to kick off training camp. Luckily, Daryl Morey went and signed multiple players for the Sixers to have more than enough bodies to get through training camp.

Hopefully the team is able to get these two back healthy, and with some time to prepare for the regular season. Maxey is going to need as much time as he can get to be ready for his first real taste of NBA action on December 23rd.

This development could alter what the team does with their final roster spot as well. With Maxey set to miss time, the Sixers could afford to add another guard to the roster. Originally former Sixer Justin Anderson seemed to be the clear favorite for the 15th roster spot, but now Derrick Walton Jr. could provide some much needed guard depth.

Kevin McCormick is the 76ers insider for 97.3 ESPN and 76ers editor for Sportstalkphilly.com. Follow him on Twitter @KevinMcC973.