Mavericks Trade Quentin Grimes to 76ers for Caleb Martin: “He Did Everything We Asked”
The Dallas Mavericks traded Quentin Grimes and a 2025 second-round pick (via PHI) to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for forward Caleb Martin. This move follows the Mavericks’ acquisition of guard Max Christie in the recent blockbuster trade that sent Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers, in exchange for Anthony Davis as the headliner.
Before the Mavericks faced the 76ers, Dallas head coach Jason Kidd thanked Grimes for his contributions in his short time with the organization and looked ahead to what Martin, who is averaging 9.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.2 assists, could provide the team after he is integrated and cleared to play.
“I can just talk about what Q meant to us in his short stint he was with us,” Kidd said. “He did everything we asked. He’s a pro. I talked to him this afternoon. His ability defensively and then offensively to help us so we’re gonna miss him, but when you look at Caleb, the versatility—his past teammates always talk highly of him. The versatility defensively and then his experience in the playoffs so we’re really excited to have this opportunity.”
The timing of the trade was fascinating. The Mavericks were less than an hour removed from holding shootaround at Wells Fargo Center ahead of Tuesday’s matchup against the 76ers. Grimes was in great spirits, dancing even, then traded to the team they were set to face off against that night.
Grimes, averaging 10.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists, greeted some of his former Mavericks teammates near the court during the pre-game before leaving for the tunnel. Along with Martin, Grimes was ruled out for “trade pending.”
Martin, 29, last played on Jan. 10 against the New Orleans Pelicans but has been sidelined since due to groin and hip injuries. He shared a positive update on his recovery with reporters in Philadelphia, describing how he’s progressing.
“I’m progressing well,” Martin said. “It’s been a little bit longer than anticipated, but it’s doing a lot better. I’ve been just trying to stay on my stuff and progressing each day. So it’s definitely getting better. Today was a better day, and I feel like I’m definitely heading toward the right direction for sure.”
The Mavericks moved a younger, more productive player set to hit restricted free agency this summer. After failing to agree on a contract extension with Grimes before the season, Dallas preferred having a player in Martin under contract through the 2027-28 season.
While the Mavericks were less forthcoming about Martin’s immediate role, the trade is an opportunity for Dallas to adjust its roster strategically as it prepares for the remainder of the season. Martin, who has had a challenging season with the 76ers, joins the Mavericks under fluid circumstances.
