Sixers takeaways: Jeff Dowtin Jr. inactive, late heroics, and Iron man Maxey

Count Dowtin out

Dowtin had averaged 4.8 points, 2.1 assists, and 13.1 minutes while playing in the Sixers’ previous 10 games. During that stretch, the 27-year-old has often been the first guard off the bench.

However, Dowtin was active against the Bulls. He had his arms around a heating pad while seated on the bench several times over the night.

The team said Dowtin wasn’t injured; but listed out due to his two-way status. As a two-way player, he’s only eligible to be active for a maximum of 50 NBA games. He’s played in 21 and has been active for 27 games.

The Sixers also welcomed Kyle Lowry back, who missed the previous 10 games, which could have also impacted their decision.

Fourth-quarter heroics

The Sixers dominated play in the final quarter. They forced the Bulls to commit 11 turnovers.

Offensively, they shot 57.9% while outscoring Chicago, 29-14, in the final quarter. And they did that with a balanced attack.

Kelly Oubre Jr scored nine of his 22 points in the quarter. Maxey tallied seven of his 31, while Eric Gordon scored five of his 13 points at the time.

Iron man Maxey

Maxey has to be exhausted. The point guard’s only real break came during the first 4 minutes, 3 seconds of the fourth.

He logged 11:08 in the first quarter before playing the entire second and third quarters. He ended up playing a game-high 43:04.

This came after Maxey logged 40 minutes in Friday’s victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. The fifth-year player averaged 37.8 points through his first 36 games.