Ranking the New York Knicks’ top 11 trade assets
By Tyler Watts
5. Quentin Grimes
The New York Knicks reportedly refused to give up Quentin Grimes in a Donovan Mitchell trade in 2022. The 6’5 wing showed flashes as a rookie, but he averaged just over 17 minutes per game and played in just 46 contests. It was surprising to see New York hold so tightly to the 22-year-old when a superstar was on the table.
Grimes rewarded the Knicks’ faith with a breakout second season where he averaged 11.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 29.9 minutes per game. The 22-year-old shot 38.6% from three-point range, and he continued to play the hard-nosed defense that endeared him to head coach Tom Thibodeau.
How much room does Grimes have to grow? He is young with a valuable skill set. His next evolution would be to increase his scoring and continue working on his jumper. Can the 23-year-old average 15 points per game and shoot north of 40% from three-point range? Teams are hoping so.
Quentin Grimes could be a valuable 3-and-D wing starter for the next decade-plus, and every team in the league would love to have that player on their roster. He still has two years left on his rookie deal where he makes $6.6 million combined. Finding a capable starter on a rookie deal that has a safe floor and immense potential is the goal of every franchise.