NBA Trade Rumors: 9 Struggling difference-makers that need a fresh start to blossom

Quentin Grimes, New York Knicks

Taking a big step forward last season, after it became quite clear how much the team believed in him, the expectation was that Quentin Grimes was going to be a breakout candidate for the New York Knicks. However, it’s been a rough start to the season for the third-year player out of Houston. So far this season, Grimes is averaging just seven points per game on 41 percent shooting from the field. Considering he averaged 11 points and three rebounds on 47 percent shooting from the field, it’s pretty fair to say he’s begun to take a step back so far.

Part of that could rust from the offseason but another part of that is a diminished role after the offseason signing of Donte DiVincenzo and a full season of Josh Hart. There are fewer minutes to go around and clearly a shorter leash for a player like Grimes. In addition to averaging fewer points per game, he’s also averaging six minutes less per contest.

There’s a chance that Grimes could end up being an odd man out in New York, especially if he wants an expanded role for a team. Maybe a fresh start for Grimes could be in the cards in the not-so-distant future, and it may be in the best interest of both sides.