Grimes Rejoins Sixers with $8.7M Contract, Agent Confirms
Quentin Grimes will return to the Philadelphia 76ers under a one-year contract worth $8.7 million. His agent, David Bauman, confirmed this agreement, which comes as Grimes navigates the dynamics of restricted free agency.
Contract Details and Career Highlights
Grimes had a standout season last year, averaging career highs with 14.6 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 steal per game. The one-year contract allows him to veto trades during the 2025-26 season and positions him for unrestricted free agency next summer.
Negotiation Timeline
- Grimes initially sought a contract worth around $30 million.
- Later, he adjusted his expectations to between $20 million and $25 million.
- The first formal proposal from the 76ers arrived on September 24, offering $39 million over four years.
- Days after, a one-year offer of $8.8 million was made, which Grimes declined.
On the negotiating front, Bauman presented a one-year offer of $17 million and a two-year option at $34 million, both of which the 76ers turned down.
76ers’ Future and Current Challenges
The Philadelphia franchise selected VJ Edgecombe with the No. 3 pick in the recent NBA draft to strengthen their backcourt. However, the team faces challenges, particularly regarding injuries to key players such as Joel Embiid and Paul George.
With Grimes now on the qualifying offer, the 76ers retain his Bird rights and are optimistic about keeping him while keeping sign-and-trade options open for next summer.
Grimes’ Performance with the 76ers
After being traded from the Dallas Mavericks during last season, Grimes averaged 21.9 points and 4.5 assists over 28 games. He notably had five games scoring 30 points or more, along with two games exceeding 40 points.
As the new season starts, Grimes is poised to play a crucial role, particularly since Jared McCain is expected to miss several weeks due to injury.
Restricted Free Agency Landscape
Quentin Grimes was the last significant restricted free agent to finalize a deal. Other players, including Josh Giddey, Cam Thomas, and Jonathan Kuminga, reached agreements earlier in the offseason.
- Josh Giddey: Four years, $100 million with the Bulls
- Cam Thomas: One-year, $6 million qualifying offer with the Nets
- Jonathan Kuminga: Two years, $48.5 million with the Warriors
The restricted free agent market has seen limited activity, largely due to the Brooklyn Nets holding considerable cap space, creating a stagnant environment for negotiations this offseason.
