The Los Angeles Lakers are expected to pursue Philadelphia 76ers guard Quentin Grimes when NBA free agency begins Tuesday at 3 p.m. PT, according to league insider Marc Stein.
Stein reported that Los Angeles has placed Grimes “among the top” of its offseason wish list, adding the 26-year-old to a growing group of players under consideration as the franchise reshapes its roster.
Cap space created by LeBron James’ exit
With LeBron James opting not to return, the Lakers project to enter free agency with more than $50 million in salary-cap room. Team executives are expected to build around Luka Doncic—acquired from Dallas last season—and guard Austin Reaves.
Grimes’ profile
Grimes appeared in 75 games (19 starts) for Philadelphia in 2025-26, averaging 13.4 points, 3.6 rebounds and 3.3 assists while shooting 45 percent from the floor and 33.4 percent from three-point range. Contract projections place his market value near $15 million annually, a figure that would leave the Lakers with considerable flexibility to address additional needs.
Roster turnover expected
Multiple Lakers from last season—Rui Hachimura, Marcus Smart and Luke Kennard—are also expected to reach free agency. General manager Rob Pelinka is reportedly evaluating several options, including forwards Cameron Johnson and Ziaire Williams, and big man Dean Wade. Center Jock Landale, another rumored target, has already agreed to re-sign with the Atlanta Hawks.
Free-agency negotiations can begin immediately after the window opens, and deals outside the restricted-free-agent market are anticipated to move quickly. Los Angeles remains one of the few teams with significant cap space, positioning the club as a prominent player in what is expected to be a competitive signing period.
Source: LakersNation.com
