Donte DiVincenzo clears the air on concerning nagging injury

Donte DiVincenzo enters his second season with the Minnesota Timberwolves, and he'll likely receive a bigger role following the departure of Nickeil Alexander-Walker. However, during the summer, there was some level of concern about DiVincenzo's health. Notably, he was supposed to play for Team Italy in EuroBasket, but was held out due to a toe injury.

Last season, DiVincenzo missed 19 games with a toe injury, raising concerns that this could be a more serious issue. Nevertheless, the Wolves always insisted this was purely a precaution, and DiVincenzo confirmed that he is at full strength ahead of the season. Undoubtedly, this is great news for Wolves fans. 

"I'm healthy, I'm fine. — I want to get back to being my normal self. — There is nothing to worry about to start the season, everything is 110% ready to go, DiVincenzo said when asked about his injury."

DiVincenzo also noted that he opted not to get toe surgery at the end of last season and that missing EuroBasket was simply precautionary.

DiVincenzo will play a key role with the Timberwolves this season

DiVincenzo posted averages of 25.9 minutes, 11.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists with 42.2/39.7/77.8 shooting splits last season. The Villanova product's impact as a spot-up shooter and secondary playmaker was especially vital. With Mike Conley turning 38 before the start of the season and Alexander-Walker's departure, DiVincenzo's role could be even more important this year. Knowing that he officially has a clear bill of health is awesome news. 

It's been rumored that DiVincenzo could earn a spot in the Wolves' starting lineup, replacing Conley. Whether he starts or not, DiVincenzo is poised to play a crucial role and will earn starter-level minutes with the Wolves. 

Last season, DiVincenzo and Julius Randle were traded to the Wolves just days before training camp. Getting used to a new situation and team took some time for both players. DiVincenzo found his groove in the second half of the season, though, averaging 13.5 points on 43.8 percent shooting from beyond the arc during the 2025 portion of the season. Since DiVincenzo is already used to the team this time around, it's fair to expect his impact to be closer to what it was at the end of last season. 

Every team needs elite shooting and extra ball handling, making DiVincenzo a valuable role player. As the Timberwolves try to get over the hump and win a championship, having a fully DiVincenzo along with a team that has a lot of experience together will benefit them.