Philadelphia 76ers guard Quentin Grimes outlined how preparation and adaptability have shaped his role this season, especially as the team navigates injuries, trades and lineup shifts.
Speaking to Mark Medina of EssentiallySports, the 25-year-old described a year built on staying ready while the club holds sixth place in the Eastern Conference at 30-22.
“I’m going out there and just seeing different matchups all the time and being able to read the game,” Grimes said. “Over time, you’re able to get more reps and stuff like that. I was always about being ready. Preparation is always huge part of success.”
The shooting guard has appeared in 48 games, averaging 12.7 points, 3.6 assists and shooting 34.1% from three in nearly 30 minutes per night, often sliding between starting and reserve duties depending on availability. His role has expanded during Paul George’s suspension, forcing Philadelphia to rely more on perimeter spacing and secondary playmaking behind Tyrese Maxey.
“That was uncertain and unexpected,” Grimes said of the suspension. “But that’s why I put in the work all summer and throughout the season. That way I would stay ready for more opportunities and more shots.”
Philadelphia’s offense revolves around Maxey’s 28.8 points and Joel Embiid’s interior presence, which means wing players must balance catch-and-shoot spacing with defensive assignments. Grimes emphasized that filling gaps collectively has been key when rotation pieces are missing.
“It’s knowing that everybody can have more opportunity,” he said. “Whoever it may be, we try to come in with the right mindset and pick up a little bit more because he’s a great shooter and a great defender.”
The February trade deadline also reshaped the locker room, as the Sixers moved rookie Jared McCain to Oklahoma City for future draft assets. Grimes acknowledged the emotional impact but framed the move through a team-first lens.
“It was tough,” he said. “He’s a great kid… He worked extremely hard. So it was tough to see him go. But hopefully this is a good opportunity for him in OKC.”
Grimes also reflected on the unpredictability of past deadlines and how a no-trade clause provided stability this season. “I’m knowing that I’m not going anywhere without me signing off on,” he said, adding that it “eased my mind a little bit.”
On the court, the guard credited Embiid’s resilience after early injuries and highlighted Maxey’s leadership growth as the All-Star point guard continues to direct the offense. “Every day, he comes in and is the same. He works extremely hard,” Grimes said.
As Philadelphia pushes toward the postseason, Grimes tied individual goals to team success, including his candidacy for Sixth Man of the Year. “Just to win,” he said. “Winning helps everything. The award doesn’t go to player on a team that’s not winning.”
