Quentin Grimes trade deal update: The New York Knicks, a storied franchise in the NBA, have once again stirred the sports world with their recent activities in the trade market. This season’s moves, particularly the acquisition of OG Anunoby, Precious Achiuwa, and Malachi Flynn from the Toronto Raptors, signaled a significant shift in their strategy.
This trade deal, which saw the departure of RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley along with a 2024 second-round pick, was just the beginning. Now, the spotlight turns to guard Quentin Grimes, whose future with the Knicks hangs in the balance as trade talks gain momentum.
Quentin Grimes: A Talent in Limbo
Quentin Grimes’ journey with the Knicks has been a roller coaster of highs and lows. His early season form saw him averaging 23.6 minutes per game, but this dwindled to a mere 17.4 minutes since December.
Despite a commendable average of 6.9 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.1 assists, along with a 38.1% success rate from the three-point line, these figures fall short of his impressive 2022-23 average of 11.3 points per game in 66 starts. Grimes, known for his defensive prowess and ability to handle the opposition’s top perimeter threats, seems to be at a crossroads in his career with the Knicks.
OH MY QUENTIN GRIMES 🤯@qdotgrimes pic.twitter.com/EnPCDG6U2q
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) January 21, 2024
Trade Winds: Possible Destinations for Quentin Grimes
NBA insider Ian Begley’s recent appearance on SportsNet New York shed light on potential destinations for Grimes. Begley revealed,
“I think those calls will continue to come in ahead of the February 8th trade deadline, and I’m told there are a few teams in particular that have expressed some interest. It is the Hawks, the Rockets, and Memphis…Keep an eye on those teams as we get closer to the deadline with Quentin Grimes.”
The Atlanta Hawks’ involvement is particularly intriguing, given the Knicks’ longstanding interest in their All-Star guard Dejounte Murray. Speculations of a trade package including Grimes, Evan Fournier, and draft picks have surfaced, though Atlanta’s high valuation of Murray could be a stumbling block.
Alternatively, Houston and Memphis might have to consider offering draft capital or involving a third team to make a deal appealing for the Knicks.
Quentin Grimes’ Perspective: Seeking a Fresh Start?
Recent reports suggest a growing discontent from Grimes about his role in the team. The 23-year-old shooting guard, who started the season under coach Tom Thibodeau, found himself replaced in the lineup by Donte DiVincenzo, the Knicks’ significant free-agent acquisition.
Grimes’ frustration boiled over following a heavy loss to the Milwaukee Bucks, where he lamented his limited offensive opportunities. He told the New York Post,
“It feels like if I don’t hit the shot, I’m coming out. So every shot I shoot probably weighs like 100 pounds if I don’t make it, and our defense, it ain’t cutting it, so I know I ain’t going back in…It’s just hard when you go the whole quarter without touching the ball…It is what it is.”
Once considered an untouchable asset in trade discussions for Donovan Mitchell, Grimes now finds himself at the heart of trade speculations. As the February 8th deadline approaches, the Knicks and Grimes are at a pivotal juncture. Whether this results in a renewed role or a new jersey for Grimes, the coming days in the NBA trade market are set to be as thrilling as ever.
