The Los Angeles Lakers moved quickly on Wednesday morning, completing four roster additions in just over half an hour. One of those signings, a four-year, $60 million contract for guard/forward Quentin Grimes that includes a player option in the fourth season, was strongly backed by head coach JJ Redick, according to The Athletic.
Team and league sources cited by the outlet said Redick has “long been a fan” of the 25-year-old wing, viewing him as a prospect who can defend the point of attack while contributing offensively. Grimes averaged double-figure scoring the past two seasons with Philadelphia but has graded out as roughly league-average on the defensive end. The Lakers believe Redick’s defensive schemes can unlock more of his two-way potential.
The Lakers’ Wednesday flurry also delivered center Walker Kessler via sign-and-trade with Utah, stretch forward Sandro Mamukelashvili, and combo guard Collin Sexton. The front office consulted both Redick and newly acquired star Luka Doncic throughout the process, aiming to assemble a roster tailored to Doncic’s skill set.
Kessler headlined the group, agreeing to a four-year, $130 million deal while Utah received two first-round picks and two pick swaps. Los Angeles views the 7-footer’s rim protection and finishing ability as an ideal complement to Doncic’s playmaking.
With the offseason moves nearly complete, the Lakers expect Grimes to slot in as a primary perimeter defender while expanding his offensive role under Redick’s system.
Source: LakersNation.com
