Quentin Grimes is returning to the Philadelphia 76ers on a one-year, $8.7 million qualifying offer with a no-trade clause. After a breakout stretch as a starter, the rising guard is betting on himself in hopes of landing a bigger payday next summer.
After a breakout second half of last season, Quentin Grimes is staying in Philadelphia — at least for one more year.
The 25-year-old guard has agreed to a one-year, $8.7 million qualifying offer with the Philadelphia 76ers, a deal that includes a rare no-trade clause, according to reports.
Rather than committing to a long-term extension, Grimes chose to bet on himself — setting up a pivotal 2025-26 campaign that could dramatically boost his market value.
Inside the Negotiations
Negotiations between Grimes’ camp and the Sixers were tense but strategic.
Agent David Bauman revealed that Philadelphia’s first offer came in at $39 million over four years, which Grimes declined in favor of shorter-term flexibility.
Bauman countered with alternative proposals — including a one-year, $17 million deal and a two-year, $34 millionoption with a player clause. The Sixers ultimately stuck to their qualifying offer, with one stipulation: Grimes would keep his no-trade protection intact.
The result? A one-year contract that positions Grimes to become an unrestricted free agent next summer — when the salary cap is expected to rise again.
From Bench Player to Breakout Starter
Grimes’ decision comes after the most productive stretch of his young career.
Acquired from the Dallas Mavericks in February’s Caleb Martin trade, Grimes quickly seized the opportunity in Philadelphia.
With several key injuries opening up a starting spot, he thrived — averaging 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.5 steals across 28 games (25 starts).
He shot 46.9% from the field and 37.3% from three, proving he could produce at a near All-Star level when given consistent minutes.
Those numbers transformed him from a rotational piece into one of the Sixers’ most promising young assets.
Why the Sixers Needed Him Back
Philadelphia’s 2024-25 season was marked by inconsistency, injuries, and disappointment. But Grimes’ emergence provided a silver lining.
With Jared McCain recovering from thumb surgery and expected to be out at least four weeks, Grimes will have an even larger role to start the season.
His scoring versatility and defensive instincts make him an ideal fit alongside Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, and Joel Embiid in head coach Nick Nurse’s revamped rotation.
If Grimes can maintain the same energy and efficiency he displayed last spring, the Sixers could have one of the most balanced backcourts in the East.
A High-Risk, High-Reward Gamble
By taking the qualifying offer, Grimes assumes some risk — a poor season or injury could hurt his value heading into 2026 free agency.
But if he builds on last year’s success, he could easily double or triple his annual salary on the open market.
It’s a move reminiscent of players like Bet on yourself pioneers Fred VanVleet and Dennis Schröder, who turned short-term deals into major paydays.
Grimes clearly believes he’s next in line.
Philadelphia’s Outlook: A Roster Ready to Rebound
With Grimes, George, Embiid, and Maxey leading the charge, the Sixers are built to rebound from last year’s struggles.
The front office has emphasized two goals this offseason: health and depth.
Adding Paul George gives them a reliable two-way veteran presence, while Grimes’ return ensures continuity in the backcourt.
If the chemistry clicks, the Sixers could reestablish themselves as legitimate contenders in a suddenly wide-open Eastern Conference.
