When the dominos fall, past decisions tend to be put under the spotlight. For Quentin Grimes, the decision to send him from the New York Knicks to the Detroit Pistons marked the beginning of his significant impact on the court, first with Detroit and now thriving with the Dallas Mavericks.
Grimes, who spent the majority of three seasons with the Knicks, was traded as part of the NBA’s 2024 trade deadline to the Pistons. While he demonstrated promise as a versatile 3-and-D wing, averaging 11.3 points per game during the previous season, his integration within the Knicks' lineup became increasingly difficult as more talent joined the team. This shift led to New York's decision to part ways with him.
After just six games with the Pistons, Grimes was traded again, this time to the Dallas Mavericks. Many observers found this move surprising, considering the Mavericks had recently contended for the NBA Finals. Yet, Dallas’s gamble on Grimes has paid off handsomely.
Since joining the Mavericks, Grimes has carved out his role, especially significant during Luka Doncic’s absence due to injury. Having appeared in 33 games this season, Grimes has progressively increased his production, averaging 10.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, and shooting at impressive rates—0.477 from the field and 0.406 from beyond the arc. If he maintains these shooting marks, it would signify his third season of shooting at least 38.1 percent from three-point range.
Remarkably, Grimes’s contributions have ramped up since the end of November. Through his initial 16 games of the season, he averaged only 6.0 points. Yet, upon hitting the midseason mark, he has exploded for 13.9 points over the following 17 games, with five outings scoring over 20 points. This surge has showcased Grimes's ability to respond positively when challenged with expanded roles, solidifying his value, particularly when the Mavericks sought to develop their offensive identity without their star player.
A closer look at Grimes’s statistics paints a portrait of his transition from merely a role player to an integral asset. During the 2024-25 season, he stands joint-fifth among Mavericks’ players for three-point conversions per game, only trailing proven scorers like Doncic and Kyrie Irving. His shooting efficiency has begun drawing comparisons to established players, underscoring how far he has come since leaving New York.
The Knicks are now re-evaluated within the league. Although they currently enjoy success, largely winning games and placing themselves as contenders, they struggle with perimeter depth—a need Grimes might have filled. His burgeoning skills as both a defensive stalwart and offensive contributor have left Knicks management and fans alike pondering what might have been.
Analysts suggest if the Knicks aim to solidify themselves as championship contenders, they will need to seek additional forward depth, especially one with the unique combination of skills Grimes has showcased. His adequacy as both sharpshooter and defender could have significantly complemented what the Knicks are trying to build.
For now, Grimes's story continues with the Mavericks, where he remains poised to make even greater strides. His fundamental approach to the game and newfound confidence is evident as the season progresses. That this all stems from trade decisions made not too long ago brings the larger narrative of player movement within the NBA to the forefront: sometimes the best course produces surprising turns.
Only time will tell how this chapter truly impacts Grimes's career and both teams involved, but he’s certainly making waves as he carves out his narrative within the league.