The Philadelphia 76ers remain in a stalemate with restricted free agent Quentin Grimes on a new contract, though they may be nearing an agreement as the qualifying offer deadline approaches.
Grimes emerged as an impact player after being acquired by the Sixers from the Dallas Mavericks ahead of the 2024-25 trade deadline. He received a golden opportunity to showcase his worth with Paul George, Joel Embiid, Jared McCain and Tyrese Maxey all missing time in the latter half of the season.
Over 28 regular-season appearances for the injury-plagued Sixers, Grimes averaged 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 1.5 steals across 33.6 minutes per game. While the sample size is small, the 25-year-old swingman impressed at the right time. Now, he’s looking to be compensated ahead of the 2025-26 campaign.
MORE: 76ers rookie V.J. Edgecombe earns praise from veteran big man
76ers hopeful negotiations will end soon
76ers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey addressed the contract negotiations Friday, stating that Grimes could be a big part of the team’s future, according to Derek Bodner of PHLY Sports.
“I think we will get to a resolution in the next few days, hopefully,” Morey said. “We’re excited to bring him back. Quentin’s a big part of what we’re trying to do, now and into the future, if we can get things resolved.”
If Grimes isn’t satisfied with Philadelphia’s final offer, he does still have the option to accept his $8.7 million qualifying offer and play out next season before becoming an unrestricted free agent. He has until Oct. 1 to accept that offer, unless both sides decide to extend the deadline.
Either way, it appears extremely likely that Grimes will return for at least the 2025-26 campaign. The 76ers did add V.J. Edgecombe with the No. 3 overall pick, though Grimes should continue to play a significant role — especially considering McCain will be sidelined to start the season due to a UCL tear in his right thumb.
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