Shortly before the start of training camp in 2024, the Minnesota Timberwolves traded Karl-Anthony Towns to the New York Knicks in exchange for Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, and a first-round pick. A blockbuster trade like this in late September is, of course, rare.
However, one main reason this trade took so long was that DiVincenzo's inclusion was a sticking point for the Wolves. While Minnesota coveted him, the Knicks were reluctant to trade one of the Villanova boys.
15 months later, Tim Connelly and the Wolves look genius for being so firm on getting DiVincenzo back. In general, this trade has aged well for the Wolves. Randle has performed at a similar level to Towns. Nevertheless, DiVincenzo's inclusion makes this trade look like a masterstroke for the Wolves.
DiVincenzo is averaging 13.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 3.7 assists on 41.3/38/76.9 shooting splits while taking over as a starter this season.
Donte DiVincenzo is key to the Timberwolves' success
Of course, DiVincenzo is mainly known for his shooting and off-ball abilities. This is understandable as he is one of the best movement shooters in the league. Notably, DiVincenzo ranks 11th in the league in 3-pointers made per game. He gives Anthony Edwards another dependable kickout option and opens up the floor for the Wolves. Overall, DiVincenzo's elite shooting has helped the Wolves' offense reach another level.
While DiVincenzo is a fantastic shooter, I can't emphasize enough that he excels at doing the little things. DiVincenzo has long been nicknamed The Big Ragu, but Kyle Theige has fittingly nicknamed him The Big RaGlue. DiVincenzo isn't a great defender, but he's super active and has great instincts. He averages 1.7 stocks per game and is willing to sacrifice his body to make winning plays.
Furthermore, DiVincenzo crashes the glass really well and is always willing to make the extra pass. DiVincenzo cuts and moves better than anyone on the team. These seemingly "little things" have a big impact on winning when it's all said and done. All in all, this makes DiVincenzo a fantastic role player and a crucial part of the Wolves' success.
When I think of the best role players in the league, DiVincenzo would be near the top of that list. With Mike Conley's decline and a lack of perimeter creation overall, I have to wonder where the Wolves would be without DiVincenzo.
Going back to the blockbuster trade, the Wolves remaining steadfast on DiVincenzo being part of the deal always made sense to me, but now this stance looks genius.