It depends of how you define maximize......
The rule is simple without using the maximize word anyway:

If you can use both dice you should do it.

If you can use only one then you should use the higher one.

If you have a double you should use the maximum number of rolls possible. 4 or else if you can't use 4 you should use 3, or else if you can't use 3 you should use 2, or else if you can't use 2 you should use 1.....

And a tricky one:
Suppose you have a single checker remained at 2-point and your opponent has one at your 1-point and you have to play 41 for example.
Then is the 2-off (using only the 4) winning the game, a legal move?
Or do you have to use both numbers with 2-1 1-off ?