Sixers Aiming To Salvage Season With Younger Rotational Players

While the shift to youth hasn’t yet yielded improved results, as Philadelphia continues to struggle without star Joel Embiid due to injury, the moves have laid the foundation for these younger players to become key rotation members in the future.

Grimes, in particular, has stood out since his arrival. The 23-year-old guard has averaged 17.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists over 11 games (eight starts) with Philadelphia, shooting 52.4% from the field.

Notably, Grimes has posted three 30-point games, including a 44-point performance in a win over the Warriors. Grimes will be a restricted free agent this summer, allowing the Sixers the opportunity to match any offer he receives.

Butler, acquired from Washington, has shown promise since the trade, though his playing time has been inconsistent. The Sixers quickly signed Butler to a standard contract, after previously expressing interest in him during the 2021 draft.

However, despite flashes of potential, Butler’s role has been limited, with Jeff Dowtin, currently on a two-way deal, taking his spot in the rotation. Butler has a team option worth $2.35 million for next season, which Philadelphia will need to decide on in the coming months.

Walker, who joined the team after playing overseas in the first half of the season, has also received early playing time, averaging 16.7 minutes in his first six games. Like Butler, Walker is under contract for next season with a team option.

While these acquisitions have not yet turned the 76ers into a more competitive unit in the absence of Embiid, the moves reflect a long-term vision to integrate youthful talent into the team’s rotation. Maybe they can take away something from this season, after all.