As the NBA season approaches, it's clear that the Minnesota Timberwolves will be leaning into their talent more. With Terrence Shannon Jr., Rob Dillingham, and Jaylen Clark all poised for increased roles. Many have discussed how this will help the Wolves replace Nickeil Alexander-Walker and cover up for an aging Mike Conley.
However, one under-discussed benefit of unleashing these young players, especially Dillingham and Shannon, is how it will allow Donte DiVincenzo to play his ideal role. Last season, the Wolves were forced to use DiVincenzo as more of a lead initiator. A role that didn't optimize his skill set, and caused some problems for the Wolves.
Dillingham specifically can take these responsibilities away from DiVincenzo, allowing him to play in the off-ball role that suits his strengths. Shannon is a solid creator with improving playmaking, so he could likewise lessen DiVincenzo's on-ball load. Nevertheless, these second-year players must prove they are capable of handling these increased on-ball duties, or DiVincenzo will, unfortunately, be once again used in more of a point guard role.
DiVincenzo thrives in an off-ball role but isn't ideal in an on-ball role
DiVincenzo had a solid campaign in his first season with the Wolves. He averaged 11.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists on 42.2/39.7/77.8 shooting splits. However, his 13.8 turnover percentage is a bit high. Furthermore, DiVincenzo lacks the creation abilities needed to be a lead guard. Just 22.8 percent of his made field goals were unassisted. He also can't generate rim pressure at a high rate, averaging just 1.7 shots at the rim.
Regardless, DiVincenzo is an elite spot-up shooter who thrives in an off-ball role. DiVincenzo shot 39.7 percent from beyond the arc last season. The year before with the New York Knicks, DiVincenzo had a career season, averaging 15.5 points and breaking the Knicks franchise record for 3-pointers in a single season. This shows how effective DiVincenzo can be in an off-ball role. The Wolves must utilize DiVincenzo in a similar role to maximize his impact.
The Wolves are counting on Dillingham and Shannon to develop
Nevertheless, for DiVincenzo to be used in this role, Dillingham and Shannon must be ready for big-time minutes. Both players are capable shot creators, which could take the pressure off DiVincenzo. Notably, despite low minutes, Shannon's 1.8 shots at the rim per game exceeded DiVincenzo's average, and Dillingham wasn't far behind at 1.3 shots at the rim.
At 6-foot-1, Dillingham is equipped to be a lead guard. Dillingham can create shots for himself at a high rate and thrives at generating rim pressure. He is also a dynamic ball handler and versatile playmaker. With Conley turning 38 before the start of the season, Dillingham will need to play a significant role in the Wolves' rotation. His combination of shot creation and playmaking should benefit the Wolves.
Rob Dillingham bag work pic.twitter.com/ikL9lHm2VG
— Eamon Cassels (@EamonCassels) August 5, 2025
Still, there's some concern about whether Dillingham can hold up defensively given his small frame. Plus, some wonder if the Kentucky product's decision-making will be a problem. Undeniably, he's a gifted passer, but he also takes a lot of risks and is turnover-prone.
At 25 years old, Shannon is more proven and seasoned than Dillingham. However, he's more of a wing than a traditional lead guard.
Shannon is a skilled shot creator with plenty of athleticism. He likely won't be a lead guard, but can take on a good amount of ball-handling and shot creation duties. Furthermore, Shannon showcased improved playmaking during summer league, which could benefit him and the Wolves. Shannon's size, shot creation, and athleticism make him an exciting fit in the backcourt next to Anthony Edwards.
Ultimately, in many ways, the Wolves' season is connected to the development of these young players, especially given the need for more ball-handling and shot creation. In the unfortunate event that Dillingham and/or Shannon can't handle a bigger role, the Wolves' lack of ball-handling next to Edwards will be on full display again.