DiVincenzo’s Bold Remarks After Knicks-Timberwolves Trade
Typically, preseason games are low-key events focused on improving fitness, adjusting to new environments, and testing player rotations. However, the recent matchup between the New York Knicks and the Minnesota Timberwolves was anything but ordinary, as Donte DiVincenzo expressed his feelings about the Knicks following a controversial trade.
This was the first encounter since the significant trade that sent Julius Randle and DiVincenzo to Minnesota while Karl-Anthony Towns (KAT) returned to his hometown, New York. Reactions to the trade have been mixed, particularly since the Knicks unexpectedly broke up the ‘Nova boys by trading DiVincenzo, who was also Jalen Brunson’s groomsman. DiVincenzo had been a valuable signing for the Knicks last offseason, even breaking the franchise’s single-season three-point record.
The Knicks justified their decision by emphasizing the need for a center, and KAT is among the top scoring big men in the league. His ability to space the floor and shoot 40% from three, combined with elite rebounding, was deemed a higher priority than adding a wing player, a position in which the team already has considerable depth. They believe that Landry Shamet can fill DiVincenzo’s role effectively, especially alongside Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, and OG Anunoby.
Nevertheless, the Knicks might end up regretting the decision to let go of a player like Donte. Few players consistently make the right and impactful plays—he’s a dedicated teammate who excels at cutting, navigating screens, and plays solid defense while shooting effectively. The Knicks may have lost out significantly, while the Timberwolves have undoubtedly benefited. Donte’s comments directed at the Knicks’ bench hint at possible unresolved emotions about the trade.
DiVincenzo Reflects on Knicks After Controversial Trade
One thing is evident: this is a tough business. Knick fans, and DiVincenzo himself, didn’t enjoy much time to celebrate his historic buzzer-beating three during Game 2 against the Sixers in the playoffs, or his role as the last man standing in their tough series loss to the Pacers. Now, less than six months later, he finds himself in a different uniform.
Recently, Donte had a lot to say to the Knicks bench, making his feelings clear. It began with a light-hearted joke aimed at Coach Tom Thibodeau—after hitting a tough layup, DiVincenzo quipped, “I can’t finish, huh Thibs?!”
Above the rim Donte talking to Knicks bench – regular then voice enhanced pic.twitter.com/cfZDlRofj9
— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) October 14, 2024
Tensions Rise Between Donte DiVincenzo and Knicks Assistant Rick Brunson
Things took an intriguing turn when Donte DiVincenzo clashed with Knicks Assistant Rick Brunson, who is also Jalen’s father. Reports indicate that DiVincenzo shouted at the bench during a free throw, saying, “That’s what happens when they let you run the show. Let Dad be the coach.” This comment seemed aimed at those involved in his trade from the Knicks, particularly targeting Jalen’s dad.
The situation escalated into a heated verbal exchange between the two after the game, requiring them to be separated.
Donte DiVincenzo and Rick Brunson had to be separated after a heated exchange postgame. pic.twitter.com/K2K7vz1g3w
— KnicksMuse (@KnicksMuse) October 14, 2024
Rick Shouldn’t Have Engaged
It’s unclear what Rick Brunson aimed to achieve by engaging in the confrontation. DiVo is known for his passion, and it’s typical for players to exchange banter during free throws. As a coach, I would expect Brunson to allow that playful interaction, even if it was directed towards him.
Ultimately, if Brunson supported the trade, he should have felt satisfied; so why engage at all? If the claims were unfounded, why not quietly clarify the situation instead of addressing it publicly? From Donte’s perspective, he’s likely determined to prove that the Knicks made a mistake in bringing him into the trade. One thing is certain: when these teams face off at the Garden in January, it will be a charged atmosphere, essential for the NBA.
Does DiVo Have a Beef With the Knicks?
It’s evident that Donte isn’t pleased about being traded. Right after the deal, there were rumors suggesting that DiVincenzo was upset about losing playing time and was open to a trade, although his camp quickly denied this, calling the reports “completely untrue.” His reaction during the preseason game clearly indicated he did not want to be traded.
DiVincenzo’s frustration is understandable. This is a business, but players are human. He signed a four-year deal with the Knicks just a year ago and built relationships with teammates. Now, he faces relocating across the country just before the season starts, which can be a difficult adjustment. Given his impressive performance last year, it’s natural for him to feel discontent over how the trade unfolded.
Julius Randle has also had to adjust, moving his young family and uprooting his son from the NY school system. Randle has dedicated himself to the franchise, opting not to take a max deal in 2021 to help build a championship team. Trading him after his career-best season seems untimely. Ideally, trades should be arranged when all parties are prepared, but that doesn’t appear to be the case here, leaving Randle and DiVincenzo with a sense of unfinished business. Waiting until late in the offseason for such a trade is surprising; big deals typically occur early to allow players to adapt.
Did Both Teams Lose This Trade?
In his article for The Ringer, Michael Pina shares a perspective that resonates with my own.
From a basketball standpoint, the trade seems advantageous for the Knicks as they acquire the best player. However, it does not address their frontcourt defensive issues. Taking on ** $ 220 million** for KAT may not have been the best strategy, especially when a smaller, less costly move could have sufficed in the short term.
In DiVincenzo, the Knicks gave up a record-breaking perimeter shooter, a top defender, and a tenacious player. While Towns upgrades the center position offensively, he lacks the gritty defense that both Randle and DiVincenzo provided, and he has had past conflicts with Thibodeau in Minnesota. Randle’s 24 points per game outperformed Towns’ 21.8.
KAT found success in Minnesota, sharing the scoring with Anthony Edwards while having Rudy Gobert assist defensively. However, his connections to the Knicks front office, particularly with Gersson Rosas and Leon Rose, fueled strong interest in acquiring him throughout the summer. Being a native New Yorker further motivated them to finalize the trade.
The Knicks’ desire for KAT has been clear, and they likely seized the opportunity to land him. However, the emotional fallout from how the trade was executed will take time to resolve. The upcoming season promises to be intriguing, especially with DiVincenzo’s sentiments towards the Knicks adding more layers to this narrative. Their January matchup will surely be electric.
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