While much of the conversation around the Philadelphia 76ers' offseason focuses on the tremendous business they sanctioned, the moves they avoided also deserve to be applauded. Quentin Grimes was lobbying for a hefty pay raise that would have prevented the Sixers from constructing the star-studded roster they have today.
Fortunately for Philadelphia, the LA Lakers coughed up the money and landed Grimes' signature. Last year, the 26-year-old showed flashes of the Sixth Man of the Year candidate he could become, but a serious dip in form made him more of a hindrance to the franchise than a positive contributor.
Grimes' postseason numbers epitomized just how steep this drop-off was. During the 76ers' embarrassing sweep by the New York Knicks, Grimes averaged just 6 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, shooting 30 percent from the floor.
Given Philadelphia's championship ambitions, they couldn't afford to carry a passenger, and any potential contract extension offered didn't warrant a pay increase. The front office made the right call on Grimes, while the Lakers thought they knew better. How is that turning out?
The Lakers are getting the full Grimes experience
Grimes is a guard who teases an offensive explosion, then suddenly becomes completely anonymous in games. Saying he goes into hiding during matchups feels like a harsh accusation, but there are few other ways to describe his nightly approach.
LA is quickly realizing what kind of player they acquired in the offseason. From one night to the next, nobody knows what Grimes will turn up. Unfortunately for the Lakers, more often than not, it is the disinterested version that either isn't capable or isn't willing to make a positive contribution to winning.
Through nine games, Grimes has averaged 8.2 points, 3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. When playing alongside a generational superstar in Luke Doncic, the numbers aren't going to be spectacular. If the Lakers see themselves as genuine title contenders, they desperately need more from the former 76ers guard.
In true Grimes fashion, he teased an upturn in form as the Lakers chalked up a professional 103-87 victory over the LA Clippers. The Houston alum turned in a 23-point, 5-assist performance, while also showcasing his defensive capabilities by recording 4 steals. Undoubtedly, a star is under the surface, but he never seems willing to break that barrier consistently.
Mike Gansey will surely deserve the Executive of the Year award if the 76ers achieve their championship aspirations. Turning Paul George's awful contract into Jaylen Brown was genius. Landing LeBron James was a masterstroke. And his refusal to budge on Grimes' contract has been the cherry on top of a very sweet cake for Philadelphia fans.
Add us as a preferred source on Google