Reasons for optimism before February 7, 2025’s nationally-televised game seemed to arrive in trios for the Philadelphia 76ers, as they strolled into Motor City featuring their healthy “Big Three” for the first time in over a month. Confident in his ability to seamlessly fit in during his debut in Philly’s red-and-blue, Quentin Grimes packed his suitcase with nifty handles and “big threes” of his own. Deemed to be something of a secondary ball handler for the younger, “more dynamic” post-deadline 76ers, Grimes introduces Ron Holland and the Detroit Pistons’ defense to his lively handle, swiftly rejecting a pick-and-roll before spinning back into uncovered land outside. Able to now freely elevate into his smooth, picturesque form, Grimes buries a triple, breathing temporary life into Philadelphia’s comeback try. Detroit would ultimately have none of it, connecting on 17 3-pointers of their own to keep the postseason-hopeful Sixers at bay. Grimes, though, made himself a standout, producing 14 points (on five-of-nine shooting), complemented by two rebounds, two assists, one block, and two trifectas. · Feb 8, 2025