Cam Reddish absent, Quentin Grimes seized his chance

Injured in the foot then dismissed by Tom Thibodeau, like Evan Fournier, Quentin Grimes had only played six matches and 43 minutes since the start of the season. His situation was blocked and even a passage through the G-League, to play and accumulate rhythm, was ruled out.

“I think the best thing is that he stays with us”, had assured the Knicks coach after the victory against the Nuggets, during which the player had not walked on the floor.

Quentin Grimes was going to have to be patient and wait his turn. It finally came quite quickly since Sunday, in Phoenix, Cam Reddish was absent. Tom Thibodeau therefore revived the back by putting him squarely in the major five, alongside Jalen Brunson.

“I have to wait for my opportunity and it was coming”he comments for the New York Post. “You have to be ready for that moment, it arrived this Sunday and I took advantage of it. »

In 32 minutes, Quentin Grimes has indeed compiled 10 points at 4/10 to shoot, 8 assists and 5 rebounds. It was a parenthesis of happiness for him in a very complicated season so far.

“It’s hard, especially when you know the expectations I had at the start of the season. I had to deal with a foot injury, I tried to stay mentally strong, to be professional, to do what the coach asked of me. I don’t think I thought my luck was over. I know myself, I know that Thibodeau also knows me, the franchise too. »

Precisely, what assessment does Tom Thibodeau draw from the performance of the young player? “He played a complete game I think. He was solid in defense, he looked for open players.. “He’s been good,” adds Jalen Brunson. “He brought energy, he played with accuracy. He is capable of making this kind of match. »