The Philadelphia 76ers remain confident they will retain shooting guard Quentin Grimes despite his restricted free agency yielding minimal movement. Philadelphia has ruled out potential sign-and-trade scenarios at this time.
The restricted free agency market has virtually disappeared due to limited cap space across the league. This situation puts the Sixers in a position where they are essentially bidding against themselves for Grimes' services.
Grimes has proven to be a dynamic two-way shooting guard capable of playing both ends of the floor. His offensive game has improved significantly since entering the league with the New York Knicks in 2021, particularly his ability to create off the dribble.
The 6-foot-5 guard represents the only player on the roster besides Tyrese Maxey who can generate significant rim pressure off the dribble. His versatility to play small forward opens up different lineup combinations featuring VJ Edgecombe and rising second-year guard Jared McCain.
League sources remain confident the Sixers and Grimes will reach an agreement despite fan anxiety over the prolonged negotiations. Grimes and his representatives are seeking a significant payout while Philadelphia remains content to let the market play out.
Other restricted free agents including Golden State's Jonathan Kuminga and Chicago's Josh Giddey are also waiting for resolution in the stalled market.
Three scenarios remain possible for Grimes and Philadelphia. The sides could find an acceptable number and reach an agreement before the offseason ends. Alternatively, Grimes could accept Philadelphia's $8.7 million qualifying offer, setting up unrestricted free agency next summer. A sign-and-trade remains the least likely option given Philadelphia's unwillingness to cooperate in such scenarios.
Grimes enjoyed a breakout season after joining the Sixers in a midseason trade from the Dallas Mavericks. In 28 games with Philadelphia, he averaged 21.9 points on 47% shooting, including 37% from three-point range. Grimes also averaged 5.2 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 1.5 steals per game.
The argument can be made that Grimes ranks as Philadelphia's fourth-best player behind Joel Embiid, Maxey and Paul George. His significant role will likely prove crucial if the Sixers hope to contend in what they view as a wide-open Eastern Conference.
