In a tightly contested preseason thriller that unfolded at the iconic Madison Square Garden, the New York Knicks edged out the Minnesota Timberwolves with a narrow 115-110 victory. The game not only offered a glimpse into the players' readiness ahead of the regular NBA season but also served as a stage for personal storylines, especially for former Knicks player Donte DiVincenzo and others with a past intertwined with the franchise.
DiVincenzo's Impact
Returning as an opponent, DiVincenzo showcased exactly why he remains a significant presence on the court. Delivering a performance marked by precision and teamwork, he racked up 15 points combined with seven assists. His prowess from beyond the arc had previously set a franchise record for 3-pointers in a single season with the Knicks, and those skills were visibly on display, much to the admiration of fans and peers alike.
"You can't be mad at him, man," noted Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards, lasering in on DiVincenzo's competitive edge. "He makes all the right plays and shoots the cover off the ball. New York is definitely going to miss him."
DiVincenzo's reunion with the Garden wasn't just professional but touched personal chords of camaraderie and nostalgia. Reflecting on his deep-rooted connections, he shared, "My relationship with Jalen, that's my brother and my best friend," underscoring the enduring bond he shares with Knicks guard Jalen Brunson. Their chemistry traces back to their collegiate days at Villanova, where they also teamed up with Josh Hart and Mikal Bridges.
Karl-Anthony Towns' Homecoming
Meanwhile, for Karl-Anthony Towns, the encounter held a unique reverence as it marked his first game against his former team, the Knicks. Adjusting to new colors can be emotionally complex, an aspect Timberwolves coach Chris Finch subtly acknowledged. "A death in the family in some ways," Finch described the feeling. "You got to make it through that first year and everything is going to be a little odd. Once we get started, it'll be business as usual."
Tribute to Absent Stars
Contributing to the game's emotional fabric were poignant reminders of key absences. Julius Randle, absent from the lineup as he rehabbed from right shoulder surgery, was honored with a video tribute that simultaneously celebrated DiVincenzo’s contributions to the Knicks. These moments of recognition provided fans a sentimental glimpse into the impact both players have had on the franchise.
Looking Forward
Though the preseason is often seen as a stage for experimental lineups and strategies, the intensity of this matchup suggested much more than rudimentary preparations. Head coach Tom Thibodeau gave DiVincenzo a chance to demonstrate his all-around game, a decision DiVincenzo relished, stating, "I was talking to Thibs... That's what happens when they let you run the show."
The Knicks’ victory may be recorded as just another preseason win, but the narratives it unearthed will resonate throughout the upcoming season. Fans will surely be on the lookout for more such exhilarating displays from both teams when the action switches to games that count.