After a rather impressive stretch without the majority of their best players, the Philadelphia 76ers received some much-needed aid as both Joel Embiid and Paul George made their respective returns in their most recent outing. More importantly, the team managed to carve out a dominant win at home, routing the Bulls en route to their 40th win of the season.
Given that the 76ers were starting to get their stars back, it was certainly interesting to see how the team’s role players — who were cudgeled into more prominent roles due to their absence of those players — will fare in a more streamlined outfit. Quentin Grimes especially had more eyes on him, but fortunately, he managed to make his impact felt across the board.
In 30 minutes of gameplay, Grimes registered a solid, all-around game with 13 points, six rebounds, five assists, three steals, and three blocks. He nearly put up an ultra-rare 5x5 stat line, which last occurred two years ago (courtesy of Victor Wembanyama). Obviously, that is not something that can be replicated on a nightly basis, but it is nonetheless an encouraging sign for the young swingman.
The 76ers need Quentin Grimes to maintain his all-around production with the playoffs fast approaching
As proven last season, Grimes is at his best when he has utmost liberty with the ball in his hands. However, with Tyrese Maxey still on deck to return soon, he will likely have to settle for an even less featured role, at least on the offensive end.
Still, Grimes will be key for the 76ers with the playoffs rapidly approaching. Philadelphia has one of the lowest-scoring second units in the NBA, and it is incumbent upon him to make the most of his role as a play finisher from the perimeter and an on-ball threat on the tertiary.
Finding a way to be impactful when the ball is not going into the hoop, however, makes a world of difference for him and the team. Too often does he disappear when he does not have it on the offensive end. If he can become reliable enough on the defensive end, he will surely get more opportunities to be a part of high-stake possessions.
Without making a prognosis on his future, Quentin Grimes will be key to this 76ers team in the postseason. With so much attention poured in on his more sterling teammates, it is imperative that he can dominate in his own sneaky way.