Quentin Grimes Returns to Sixers After Restricted Free Agency

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — Quentin Grimes returned to practice with the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday after concluding his restricted free agency. The 25-year-old shooting guard expressed eagerness to rejoin his teammates as he works to make an impact this season.

Grimes had spent time training at the University of Houston during his contract negotiations, where he worked closely with head coach Kelvin Sampson. “I was in pretty good shape working out with those guys, competing down there in some live action,” Grimes said. “It was my first time really getting up and down in some 5-on-5, but I feel like Coach Sampson had me doing some great conditioning.”

Head coach Nick Nurse noted Grimes’ readiness to perform. “He played hard and he looked like he’s been working out,” Nurse said. “He’s in good shape and was very energetic, bouncy and athletic.” Grimes also addressed his contract situation, stating that he had no lingering issues and was focused on his role with the team. “I try to control what I can control, and that’s how hard I go in the gym,” he said.

Since returning, Grimes has worked with assistant coaches to adapt to the new offensive strategies of the team. Nurse said Grimes’ understanding of the offense was “very good,” adding that he hopes to see a diversified contribution from Grimes. “Help us rebound. Really help us guard; you’re going to be guarding some tough matchups,” he explained.

As the Sixers prepare for their upcoming games, Nurse indicated that Grimes could be in the mix for significant minutes, depending on his performance in the preseason. An official update from the Sixers after practice revealed that Joel Embiid (left knee) has been making progress, while Paul George (left knee) is increasing the intensity of his workouts. Trendon Watford (right hamstring) will remain sidelined for the team’s next preseason game.