Since being acquired before this season, Donte DiVincenzo has been an X-Factor for the Minnesota Timberwolves. He provides the Wolves with spot-up shooting, shot creation, and playmaking. Undoubtedly, this skill set elevates the Timberwolves' ceiling.
After a career season in 2023-24, DiVincenzo took somewhat of a step back in his first season with the Timberwolves. Nevertheless, he has made a positive impact on the Wolves this season and has recently been heating up. Let's dive into why DiVincenzo's play could be crucial against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals.
DiVincenzo is getting his shot back
In the playoffs, DiVincenzo has uncharacteristically struggled with his jumper, shooting just 25 percent from beyond the arc. However, in the last two games in the second round against the Golden State Warriors, DiVincenzo has found his shot, netting 50 percent of his 3s. Additionally, in Game 5, DiVincenzo scored a 2025 playoff high of 13 points.
DiVincenzo will be a vital part of the Timberwolves' Western Conference Finals series, especially considering how important it is to win the 3-point battle. The Thunder have struggled to shoot in the playoffs. While the Timberwolves have shot solidly, getting one of their best shooters back at this level would benefit them. If DiVincenzo can shoot close to the 40 percent mark, the Timberwolves' championship chances would skyrocket. DiVincenzo's overall scoring will be crucial given that OKC will attempt to take away Anthony Edwards' scoring.
DiVincenzo's impact is evident regardless of shooting
Despite DiVincenzo's struggles as a shooter in the playoffs, he's found ways to contribute. He has been crucial as a playmaker and ball handler next to Edwards. DiVincenzo is averaging 3.5 assists and has taken on some point guard duties.
His impact has been particularly valuable since Mike Conley has struggled for parts of the playoffs. DiVincenzo has also remained active defensively, averaging 1.7 steals in the playoffs. Given OKC's size and athleticism, DiVincenzo's 25.8 minutes are likely to increase, especially if his recent strong shooting continues.
Notably, DiVincenzo is part of one of the Timberwolves' most used and effective lineups. The lineup of DiVincenzo, Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Julius Randle, and Naz Reid has a +34.6 net rating. This has been Minnesota's most-used fourth-quarter lineup, and they post a +88.8 net rating in the fourth quarter.
These stats highlight DiVincenzo's ability to make a well-rounded impact. Expect Chris Finch to utilize this lineup even more against the Thunder as it enhances Minnesota's spacing and versatility. Overall, DiVincenzo seems poised to have a big series against the Thunder, which could allow Minnesota to pull off an upset.