The Philadelphia 76ers have made their first trade of the 2025 trade deadline cycle, and it’s a deal with the Dallas Mavericks. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Sixers will trade Caleb Martin in exchange for Quentin Grimes and a 2025 second-round pick.
The Sixers had signed Martin to a four-year deal in the summer, hoping he would be a key supporting cast member alongside Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George. However, injuries have derailed those plans, and the team finds itself further from title contention than expected.
On the other hand, the Mavericks continue to be active in the trade market, having already made the blockbuster Luka Doncic-for-Anthony Davis swap. Martin, a solid role player with a team-friendly contract, provides the Mavs with additional depth, despite being five years older than Grimes.
76ers Get Quentin Grimes, 2nd-Round Pick
The Sixers have acquired two valuable assets in Grimes and their own second-round pick. Grimes, in his first season with the Mavericks, is averaging 10.2 points per game and shooting a career-best 39.8 percent from beyond the arc. He excels as a three-point shooter, particularly from the corners, and is known for his efficient shooting at the rim. Additionally, Grimes is a tenacious defender, constantly challenging ball-handlers. His 3-and-D skills make him a perfect fit for the Sixers’ needs.
Grimes will be a restricted free agent this summer, and the Sixers will have his Bird rights, meaning they can match any offer he receives. This gives them the advantage of keeping him unless a significantly large offer comes along. Furthermore, the Sixers have regained their 2025 second-round pick, which was originally traded to acquire George Hill in 2021. This pick could prove valuable, potentially landing in the top 10-to-12 spots of the second round. The Sixers’ front office has a track record of success in later rounds, making this selection an asset for future trades.
While the Sixers will need to negotiate a new deal with Grimes in the offseason, the acquisition of a young, talented player under team control, along with the return of their own second-round pick, is an excellent move by Daryl Morey and the front office. Additionally, this trade brings them below the first apron, bringing them closer to opening up the non-taxpayer mid-level exception, which will be crucial in their efforts to re-sign Guerschon Yabusele.
76ers Trade Grade: A
Mavericks Land Caleb Martin
After trading Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers, the Mavericks have once again made a move to shake up their roster. Martin, signed through the 2026-27 season, brings solid defense and playmaking skills when healthy. Although his three-point percentage may not be impressive at first glance, his defensive abilities, rebounding from the wing, toughness, and playoff experience make him a valuable addition for Dallas.
While there may be some overlap between Grimes and new addition Max Christie, it’s puzzling to see the Mavs acquiring the older player and giving up draft capital in the process. The Sixers’ second-round pick currently sits at the 37th overall selection. Dallas must believe that Martin will be a significant upgrade, considering his defensive prowess. However, Grimes is also an exceptional defender, and the gap in shooting and age between the two players favors Grimes. Although Martin’s long-term deal provides stability for the Mavericks’ front office, there’s no guarantee that he will outperform Grimes in the future.
Martin’s experience on successful playoff teams likely caught the attention of the Mavericks. While Grimes started for the New York Knicks in the 2023 postseason, Martin played a crucial role for the Miami Heat, particularly during their run to the 2023 NBA Finals. Perhaps his performances in high-pressure moments influenced the Mavs’ decision to prioritize him. Nico Harrison, the Mavericks’ decision-maker, has shown a willingness to make bold moves, as evidenced by the Doncic trade. Therefore, another trade with questionable upside shouldn’t come as a surprise.
Mavericks Trade Grade: C
In conclusion, the Philadelphia 76ers have made a significant move by acquiring Quentin Grimes and a second-round pick. Grimes brings valuable shooting and defensive skills to a team in need of 3-and-D players. Additionally, regaining their own second-round pick provides the Sixers with another asset for future trades. On the other hand, the Dallas Mavericks have acquired Caleb Martin, a solid player with playoff experience, but at the cost of draft capital. The trade has its risks and uncertainties, making it a questionable move for the Mavericks. Overall, the 76ers have scored a slam dunk in this trade game against the Mavericks, positioning themselves for success in the future.