Knicks Outlast Timberwolves 115-110 Amid DiVincenzo’s Heated Response to Trade
The New York Knicks narrowly defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 115-110 in a tense preseason matchup on October 14. However, the game was less about the score and more about the fireworks off the court. Former Knicks guard Donte DiVincenzo, recently traded to the Timberwolves, wasn’t shy about expressing his displeasure. The match not only showcased great performances but also featured heated exchanges—especially between DiVincenzo and Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau.
DiVincenzo’s Performance: Playing With a Chip on His Shoulder
DiVincenzo clearly came into this game with something to prove. In 26 minutes on the floor, he posted an impressive 15 points, 3 rebounds, and 7 assists. But the stat sheet only tells part of the story. His frustration about being traded was evident throughout the game, boiling over during a free throw, when he sarcastically shouted toward Thibodeau:
“Thanks for the trade! This is what happens when they give you control!”
The emotional outburst set the tone for what became an increasingly heated game.
On-Court Drama: Fireworks Between DiVincenzo and Thibodeau
DiVincenzo wasn’t the only one fuming. Jalen Brunson’s father, Knicks assistant coach Rick Brunson, had a heated post-game confrontation with the newly traded guard. Jalen Brunson, caught between his former Villanova teammate and his father, awkwardly stepped in, patting DiVincenzo’s shoulder in an attempt to diffuse the situation.
In stark contrast to the tension between DiVincenzo and his former team, Karl-Anthony Towns of the Timberwolves enjoyed a lighthearted moment after the game. Towns, who was part of the trade, posted a double-double with 16 points and 16 rebounds. After the final whistle, Towns shared a friendly moment with Anthony Edwards, swapping jerseys and posing for photos—a scene of camaraderie that sharply contrasted with DiVincenzo’s fiery demeanor.
The Villanova Four No More: Knicks Break Up the Band
The Knicks’ offseason trade sent shockwaves through the team, breaking up the beloved Villanova connection. Julius Randle and DiVincenzo were shipped to Minnesota in exchange for Karl-Anthony Towns, a move that clearly didn’t sit well with DiVincenzo. From his pointed comments during the game, it’s clear that Thibodeau was the driving force behind the trade.
Adding to the intrigue, Josh Hart hinted in a previous interview that the trade might have been influenced by former Knicks center Isaiah Hartenstein, though Hart didn’t elaborate, leaving fans puzzled about the true motivations behind the deal.
Key Player Performances
- Donte DiVincenzo (Timberwolves): 15 points, 3 rebounds, 7 assists
- Karl-Anthony Towns (Timberwolves): 16 points, 16 rebounds
- Anthony Edwards (Timberwolves): 12 points, smooth chemistry with Towns
- Moses Moody (Knicks): 23 points, clutch shooting performance
- Jonathan Kuminga (Knicks): 19 points, 7 rebounds
- Stephen Curry (Knicks): Limited to 15 minutes, but contributed 6 points and 4 assists
FAQs
DiVincenzo’s anger stemmed from being traded to the Timberwolves. During a free throw, he sarcastically thanked Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau, whom he believes was responsible for orchestrating the trade.
Despite the loss, Timberwolves stars like Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards had solid performances. Towns recorded a double-double with 16 points and 16 rebounds.
DiVincenzo’s outburst suggests that Thibodeau had significant influence over the trade that sent him to Minnesota.
Caught between his former teammate DiVincenzo and his father Rick Brunson, Jalen tried to diffuse the post-game confrontation by awkwardly patting DiVincenzo on the shoulder.
The Knicks broke up their Villanova connection, sending shockwaves through the team. Some believe this move may disrupt the chemistry the team had built over the past season.
Conclusion
The Knicks vs. Timberwolves preseason clash offered more than just basketball—it was a soap opera on hardwood. While DiVincenzo’s fiery response to his trade added drama, the Knicks’ win and Towns’ impressive performance were just as noteworthy. As both teams move forward, fans will be eager to see how these roster changes impact the regular season. For DiVincenzo, every game against the Knicks now promises to be personal—a storyline worth following.
With the NBA regular season just around the corner, expect more fireworks from both teams as they look to build momentum and adjust to their new rosters. This preseason drama has only added fuel to the fire—get ready for an exciting season ahead!
