76ers star’s career-best form drives push for big payday

When the Philadelphia 76ers acquired Quentin Grimes from the Dallas Mavericks in February, he was considered a solid role player — an efficient 3-point shooter and capable defender expected to provide depth off the bench. 

Grimes has rewritten that narrative in a matter of weeks, emerging as one of the NBA’s most prolific scorers and a potential cornerstone for the Sixers’ future.  

Head coach Nick Nurse needed others to step up with the team battling injuries, including extended absences for Joel Embiid and Paul George. Grimes has done more than that — he has thrived under the increased responsibility, delivering the best stretch of basketball in his young career. 

With restricted free agency looming this summer, the 24-year-old guard has positioned himself for a significant payday, whether from Philadelphia or elsewhere.  

March has been particularly impressive for Grimes, as he has averaged 28 points per game, ranking among the league’s top scorers. He has recorded multiple 40-point performances, including a 44-point outburst against the Golden State Warriors on March 1 that snapped the Sixers’ nine-game losing streak. 

Weeks later, on March 17, he erupted for a career-high 46 points against the Houston Rockets, setting personal bests in three-pointers (eight) and rebounds (13).