Embiid Backs Grimes as Contract Impasse Lingers and Sixers Begin Camp
embiid-backs-grimes-contract-impasse-sixers
PHILADELPHIA — Joel Embiid voiced public support for Quentin Grimes on Saturday, saying the absent guard is right to prioritize his own interests while stalled contract talks keep him away from the 76ers’ training camp.
“This is a business,” Embiid told reporters after the morning practice. “You have to do what’s best for you and your family, and I’d do the same if I were in his position.” Grimes is not expected to join the club for its upcoming trip to Abu Dhabi.
Talks still far apart
Agent David Bauman said Philadelphia issued its first formal proposal Wednesday at $39 million over four years, a figure well below what the restricted free agent is seeking. A team source described that number as an informal discussion, adding that the two sides remain nowhere near an agreement.
With Wednesday’s deadline approaching, Grimes may have to decide between signing an $8.7 million qualifying offer for 2025-26 or accepting a one-year deal from the Sixers that would require him to waive a no-trade clause, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Encouraging return for Embiid
The former MVP participated in the bulk of Saturday’s session, his first full workout since undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in April. Embiid was limited to 19 games last season.
“Everything we did at the start was live and he was involved,” head coach Nick Nurse said. “He didn’t do every drill, but he did a lot, moved well, played hard and his energy was great.”
George and Watford sidelined
Paul George (left knee surgery in July) and Trendon Watford (right hamstring tightness) were the only players held out of live work. Both went through individual on-court activities and are considered day-to-day.
Rookie earns early praise
Veteran center Andre Drummond singled out first-year guard VJ Edgecombe for his approach. “The first day I met VJ he asked a million questions, and I loved it,” Drummond said. “His confidence stands out right away.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
