The Philadelphia 76ers have been a fairly quiet organization this offseason. Aside from drafting VJ Edgecombe, the only significant development for the 76ers this offseason has been the status of Quentin Grimes’ restricted free agency, despite injury concerns looming over their stars.
Like many restricted free agents, Grimes has faced a challenging situation with limited freedom to explore other teams. Although several teams have shown interest, his restricted status limits his ability to pursue other offers.
Among the parties to reportedly show an interest in acquiring him, recent rumors suggest that the Utah Jazz have emerged as a potential suitor. The Jazz have been viewed as a “team with the flexibility to add talent,” which aligns with their offseason strategy.
With regard to a signing, Utah has more than enough cap space to offer Grimes a favorable multi-year deal. With the second apron restrictions looming this offseason, teams are hesitant to overspend. The 76ers may struggle to match a strong offer.
A straightforward signing by Utah is plausible but remains the least likely outcome. Instead, a sign-and-trade appears to be the more realistic scenario.
Given the consensus of the best offers extended to restricted free agents this offseason, we explore a possible trade between the 76ers and the Jazz if Grimes signs a four-year, $90 million deal.
Proposed Trade Details
Utah Jazz Receive: Quentin Grimes
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Walker Kessler, KJ Martin, 2027 first-round pick (LAL)
A trade may require the Jazz to part ways with an incredibly talented big man, but what they get in return could also be equally valuable.
Quentin Grimes, in his brief stint as the first option in Philadelphia, displayed the extent of his abilities as a scoring threat. While also being a capable facilitator, Grimes recorded an average of 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game last season.
When given minutes in the starting spot, the 25-year-old demonstrated his ability to be productive, even dropping a 46-point performance in one of those games.
On the 76ers, the guard will see a lot of competition for minutes next season. With Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain back in the rotation, the 25-year-old is more likely to come off the bench. In this regard, a move to Utah may benefit him.
The Jazz present a better outlook purely because of their status as a rebuilding franchise. As constructed, Utah isn’t looking to contend for the title or even be competitive in the West. Although this could be demoralizing, it is also a great situation for young players to shine and cultivate their skills.
In this scenario, Grimes would be paired with Keyonte George in the backcourt. The Jazz seem to be invested in George’s growth, considering their decision to trade Collin Sexton this offseason. Utah could boast a young backcourt brimming with talent by adding the Sixers guard to their rotation.
The only downside of this move is that Grimes wouldn’t be the primary scoring option, as Lauri Markkanen remains Utah’s focal point. But with a guaranteed starting spot and more playing time, he could certainly establish himself and raise his value.
This trade also has value for the 76ers. With the potential absence of Paul George and Joel Embiid, Philadelphia could do with some reinforcements in the frontcourt.
With Kessler being one of the best young big-man prospects in the league, the 76ers could look to develop his talents alongside the rest of the team’s young core.
Last season, Kessler recorded an average of 11.1 points and 12.2 rebounds per game, while also putting up 2.2 blocks. His effectiveness on both ends of the floor could be worth cultivating for the future. Meanwhile, Martin provides a lot of energy off the bench. With averages of 6.4 points and 2.9 rebounds, he could be useful in adding depth to the bench rotation.
Both players are on expiring deals, giving Philadelphia the flexibility to reassess and re-sign them next summer. Additionally, a protected first-round pick in 2027 is bound to pique their interest.
The rumors involving the Jazz are simply speculation at this stage, as there remains a greater likelihood that the 76ers will re-sign him at some point before the season begins. Given the state of the restricted free agency market, Grimes may not receive a favorable deal from Philadelphia.
