The Los Angeles Lakers have identified Philadelphia 76ers guard Quentin Grimes as another potential free-agent target as they continue reshaping the roster around Luka Doncic.
NBA insider Marc Stein reported on Tuesday that Grimes is emerging as “another top Lakers target” after the team’s reported interest in Toronto forward-center Sandro Mamukelashvili. Los Angeles is exploring multiple additions after LeBron James’ departure and is looking for players who fit alongside Doncic and Austin Reaves.
Grimes is expected to attract significant interest when free agency opens. Insider Evan Sidery previously reported that the guard could command a contract around the mid-level exception because of his two-way skill set and ability to contribute to playoff teams.
The 26-year-old had his strongest season as a full-time contributor in 2025-26, averaging 13.4 points, 3.6 rebounds and 3.3 assists in 75 games for Philadelphia. He shot 45.0% from the field, 33.4% from three-point range and 84.0% from the free-throw line while playing 29.4 minutes per game.
Grimes also showed a higher offensive ceiling during his stint with the 76ers in the 2024-25 season after being traded from Dallas. In 28 games with Philadelphia that year, he averaged 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.5 assists while starting 25 contests.
The Lakers’ interest makes sense given their roster construction. Los Angeles finished the 2025-26 season with a 53-29 record, won the Pacific Division and built its offense around Doncic, who averaged 33.5 points, 8.3 assists and 7.7 rebounds while earning All-NBA First Team honors.
However, the Lakers were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference semifinals, highlighting the need for more reliable two-way depth. Grimes’ ability to defend perimeter players, space the floor and operate without dominating possessions aligns with what contenders typically seek around high-usage stars.
Los Angeles had shooting on the roster with Luke Kennard, who averaged 9.0 points while shooting 44.8% from three after joining the Lakers, but Kennard agreed to a deal with the Phoenix Suns this offseason. Grimes would provide a different profile, bringing more defensive versatility and secondary playmaking.
The Lakers also have uncertainty at the wing position following James’ exit. James averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds during his final season in Los Angeles, leaving a major rotation role available alongside Doncic and Reaves.
