Sixers Struggle Without Stars, Grimes Shines

Quentin Grimes shows promise, but rotation decisions raise questions

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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With the Sixers' four highest-paid players out, the team struggled against the Cavaliers. However, Quentin Grimes stood out, showcasing his athleticism and scoring ability. The article discusses Grimes' performance and how he plays differently when he's not sharing opportunities with the team's stars. It also questions the Sixers' rotation decisions, particularly around playing time for their best 3-point shooters.

Why it matters

The Sixers' depth and bench scoring have been issues this season, and Grimes' performance highlights both his potential and the team's need to better utilize their role players. The article also raises questions about the coaching staff's rotation decisions and whether they are maximizing the team's offensive firepower.

The details

Grimes had a strong game, attacking the rim and scoring with his athleticism, even against the Cavaliers' stout defense. However, the article notes that Grimes plays a fundamentally different style when he's the primary ball-handler compared to when he's sharing opportunities with the team's stars like Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and Paul George. The article also criticizes the Sixers' rotation decisions, pointing out that some of their best 3-point shooters like Jared McCain, Jabari Walker, and Justin Edwards are not getting consistent minutes, while Andre Drummond continues to play significant minutes despite not adding much beyond rebounding.

  • The Sixers played the Cavaliers on March 10, 2026.

The players

Quentin Grimes

A Sixers player who stood out with his aggressive play and scoring ability in the team's loss to the Cavaliers.

Andre Drummond

A Sixers player who continues to receive significant playing time despite questions about his overall impact on the team.

Tyrese Maxey

One of the Sixers' four highest-paid players who was out for the game against the Cavaliers.

Joel Embiid

One of the Sixers' four highest-paid players who was out for the game against the Cavaliers.

Paul George

One of the Sixers' four highest-paid players who was out for the game against the Cavaliers.

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The takeaway

The Sixers' loss to the Cavaliers highlights the team's depth and rotation issues, as well as the potential of players like Quentin Grimes when given the opportunity to be more involved in the offense. The article suggests the coaching staff needs to better utilize the team's best shooters and consider reducing Andre Drummond's minutes in favor of other big men who can provide more on the offensive end.