A torn Achilles injury can change a player's career and keep them out for over a year. Thankfully, though, players have returned to the court more quickly in recent years, with Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum as a prime example. Tatum tore his Achilles in May and returned in early March, missing a total of 298 days.
Since Minnesota Timberwolves guard Donte DiVincenzo suffered his own torn Achilles injury in late April, it's been clear that he's attempting to replicate Tatum's speedy recovery. DiVincenzo got the surgery from the same doctor that Tatum did, and he did so the day after the injury (just like Tatum). Getting surgery done this soon helps speed up the recovery process.
There isn't a definite timeline for DiVincenzo, but earlier in the offseason, it was reported that the Wolves are optimistic about his chances of returning. Based on Tatum's recovery, though, somewhere around the All-Star break could be in the cards. And DiVincenzo returning would be a major boon to the Wolves' bench.
What Jayson Tatum looked like post-injury
All things considered, Tatum looked pretty good coming off such a serious injury. He averaged 21.8 points, 10 rebounds, and 5.3 assists. Sure, he averaged 26.8 in his last fully healthy season, but remaining a 20 PPG game is no small feat. Part of it was taking a backseat to Jaylen Brown. Additionally, Tatum played in just 16 games after returning from injury. In any event, Tatum remained an All-Star-level player immediately after returning from injury.
What most stood out about Tatum's return was that he made an all-around impact. His feel for the game, defense, and versatility looked as good as ever. While Tatum's rim attempts were a career low, this is to be expected post-injury, and he still looked aggressive when attacking the basket.
Now, Tatum did hurt his calf in the playoffs, so the Timberwolves will need to closely monitor DiVincenzo's health if and when he returns. Overall, though, Tatum's recovery shows that you can return and immediately contribute positive minutes. This is great news for DiVincenzo and the Wolves.
Donte DiVincenzo's return would give the Timberwolves a massive boost
It's no secret that DiVincenzo's best trait is his shooting. Since his game relies on skill, not athleticism, he could make a strong impact quickly upon returning. The Wolves will largely be counting on DiVincenzo to be a spot-up and movement shooter.
Even if percentages take a dip (Tatum did, to be fair), DiVincenzo will still be a highly respected shooter with a ton of gravity. He is also a fantastic glue guy who provides defensive playmaking, high motor, and connective passing. This skill set makes him an ideal complement alongside stars, and I don't see that changing.
Currently, there's a lot of uncertainty about the Wolves' bench, as Ayo Dosunmu is the only proven reserve player. DiVincenzo would give the Wolves' bench some much-needed stability and another high-end complementary player.
DiVincenzo will likely come off the bench when he returns. Still, his value alongside the Wolves' stars will be immense. Just imagine the 3-point shooting upside in lineups with him, Anthony Edwards, and LaMelo Ball. That'll be tough for opposing defenses to deal with, and his return could make the Wolves one of the league's best shooting teams (if they aren't already). In the playoffs, this 3-point shooting could be a major advantage, especially against the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs.
If DiVincenzo returns near the end of the regular season and ramps up for the playoffs, Minnesota could become all the more dangerous. With DiVincenzo in the fold, paired with possible growth from Terrence Shannon Jr. and Joan Beringer, the Wolves' bench could go from a reasonable concern to a clear strength.
DiVincenzo returning around the All-Star break would certainly be a game-changer for the Timberwolves. Fortunately, this feels like a genuine possibility, given Tatum's recovery timeline.
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