Joel Embiid Supports Quentin Grimes Amid Sixers Contract Negotiations

Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid has expressed his support for restricted free agent Quentin Grimes amid ongoing contract negotiations, emphasizing that players must prioritize their personal and family interests in business decisions. Grimes, who has yet to sign a deal and can accept an $8.7 million qualifying offer preserving his no-trade clause, has not attended Media Day or training camp, highlighting the standoff with the team. The Sixers have proposed a multi-year contract slightly above the qualifying offer but require Grimes to waive his no-trade clause, which his camp has resisted due to luxury tax concerns. Embiid, recovering from a knee injury with no set return date, stressed the importance of team unity and winning despite player absences or contract disputes. He noted that while players can choose whether to be with the team, the focus should remain on those present and working towards success. This situation echoes previous holdouts involving high-profile Sixers players like Ben Simmons and James Harden, with Embiid maintaining a pragmatic stance on such negotiations.