The NBA free agency scene is changing around us, as a number of players are setting themselves up to reap massive contracts the next two offseasons. For the Los Angeles Lakers, Quentin Grimes has emerged as a key second option. This emergence doesn’t just come at coincidental times though, as they’ve surfaced during LeBron James’s absences. With impressive statistics and performance, he is setting himself up for a significant payday in the 2026 free agency.
Between Grimes’ hot season! As the first reserve over the course of nine games, he’s fourth in both minutes and points per game. His contributions have been the Lakers, far and away. That impact became even more evident after they traded for him from the Dallas Mavericks at the 2025 trade deadline. In his 28 games as a Hawk, he logged career-highs of 33.7 minutes per game and 21.9 points per game. It’s that ability to play at a consistently high level that has turned Brady into the gold standard of all league players.
Grimes’ Impressive Performance
Quentin Grimes’ career trajectory is remarkable. He’s already racked up 110 career double-doubles before turning 22 years of age. This remarkable accomplishment now puts him alongside NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal for fourth most in history. Grimes unrestricted free agency starts in 2026. With the right guidance and development, teams across the league are eyeing him, hoping to unlock his immense potential.
“The opportunity that coach [Nick Nurse] is giving me provides a lot of freedom out there on the court,” – Quentin Grimes
This newfound freedom has allowed Grimes to showcase his skills and talent more effectively. Coach Nick Nurse has noticed his growth and tenacity on the court, particularly in defensive matchups against top scorers like Brandon Ingram.
“You saw him. He was fighting [Brandon] Ingram most of the night,” – Nick Nurse
Nurse praised Grimes’ work ethic, stating how he consistently challenges some of the league’s best players while maintaining a physical approach.
“He’s done that consistently, where he’s got one of the better scorers in the league or the other team and keeps working and working,” – Nick Nurse
Other Emerging Stars
As much as Grimes is the talk of the town, he hasn’t been the only standout this year. Austin Reaves has gone on an unbelievable run with his scoring. He leapt from 20.2 points per game last year to 31.1 points per contest this year! He currently ranks 6th among all players in points per game. This accomplishment cements his role as an integral piece of the Lakers’ success.
Add in the emergence of Rui Hachimura, who’s playing at a career high in every major category this season. Cameron has averaged an astounding 59% from the field, making him a tremendous addition to his team.
“He worked relentlessly on his game. He’s always had the talent. I think the confidence is coming now, too,” – J.B. Bickerstaff
Bickerstaff pointed out Hachimura’s commitment this past summer. For one, he noted that all Hachimura’s work is starting to show itself on the court.
Contract Year Dynamics
Many of them are dealing with contract year dynamics that will further impact their careers in the league. Deandre Ayton leads the NBA in on-ball screens this season, showcasing his versatility and importance to his team. As for 2024-25, his statistics cratered due to injuries throughout the latter half of that season. This recent downturn prompted uncertainty about his long-term value.
Young guard Collin Sexton will be eligible to sign a three-year, $71.7 million extension. He will be an unrestricted free agent next summer. His performance this season will go a long way in deciding what kind of market value he has.
Furthermore, Simone Fontecchio is slated to hit restrictive free agency in 2026. His defensive percentage stands at 34.9% when he is the closest defender this season, highlighting his potential as a valuable asset for any team looking to bolster their roster.
Jalen Duren, another young player, decided against signing a rookie extension prior to the season, positioning himself strategically for future negotiations.
“Italy was my [scouting assignment] when I was an assistant with Team USA,” – Erik Spoelstra
Spoelstra’s thoughts on international players foreshadow the increasing importance of international talent in the NBA. The league continues to become more competitive as teams scout international prospects who can make significant contributions on the court.
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