Quentin Grimes’ future with the Philadelphia 76ers remains uncertain, but his ability to fit into the team’s dynamics has been evident. This season, his impressive three-point shooting and solid perimeter defense have elevated him to one of the NBA’s premier sixth men. However, as the 76ers approach full health, Grimes has struggled to maintain his previous level of play in December.
Initially, Grimes thrived as a primary ball-handler, contributing significantly to the team’s offense. He showcased some of the best basketball of his career, averaging 17 points on 45.6% shooting from the field during the first part of the season. Unfortunately, with stars Joel Embiid and Paul George taking on bigger roles, Grimes has found his opportunities diminished. Over the last seven games, he has only managed to average 8.1 points with disappointing shooting percentages of 28.1% from the field and 26.2% from beyond the arc.
The shift in team dynamics, particularly with Embiid stationed in the post and George acting as a ball-handler, has resulted in fewer on-ball opportunities for Grimes. His usage rate has plummeted while he shares the floor with these players, leading to a stark reduction in shots near the basket. During the initial games of the season, he often thrived in transition, but recent adjustments have impeded that aspect of his game.
Compounding the issue, Grimes has not been able to capitalize on the double-teams drawn by Embiid, failing to convert on any shots that came from Embiid’s passes in his last seven contests. As his shooting percentages decline, it has become crucial for him to adapt to Philadelphia’s slower-paced offense, which mainly highlights Embiid’s strengths.
Despite these challenges, Grimes still harbors the potential to be an exceptional complement to the 76ers’ core players. The overall adjustment period extends beyond just him, as Embiid, George, and Tyrese Maxey also work to find cohesion. Grimes’ struggles could partially stem from shooting variance; however, a pathway back to form exists through well-timed cuts and movements without the ball, which can help him leverage the attention that the star players command on the court.
To regain his form, Grimes must pro-actively seek ways to penetrate defenses, utilizing off-ball movement to remain involved in the offense. By embracing this approach, he can enhance his contributions significantly and potentially reintegrate into the 76ers’ identity as a standout sixth man. While his current performance raises some concerns, the talent and skill remain, leaving room for hope as the season progresses.