Knicks Edge Out Timberwolves in Preseason Thriller at MSG
The rafters of Madison Square Garden hummed with anticipation as two NBA teams clashed in a tightly-contested preseason match. The New York Knicks emerged with a narrow 115-110 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, setting an exciting tone ahead of the regular season.
DiVincenzo Shines on Familiar Ground
Amidst the action, one player stood out not only for his performance but for the narrative woven into the fabric of the game—Donte DiVincenzo. Once a custodian of Knicks hopes, DiVincenzo showcased his versatile skill set, tallying 15 points and seven assists. His impact was felt beyond the numbers, testimonies to the competitive spirit he brought to the floor. Reflecting on his time with the Knicks, Anthony Edwards of the Timberwolves noted, “You can't be mad at him, man. He makes all the right plays and shoots the cover off the ball. New York is definitely going to miss him.”
DiVincenzo’s connection to Madison Square Garden doesn’t just rest in his recent past. His tenure with the Knicks saw him set a franchise record for 3-pointers in a single season, a feat that echoes in the annals of Knicks history. But this game wasn’t just about past achievements. It was about a familiar setting that allowed DiVincenzo to showcase his penchant for running the show. “I was talking to Thibs... That's what happens when they let you run the show,” he remarked, hinting at the chemistry and liberty he enjoys on the court.
New Roles and Old Bonds
The evening was also symbolic for DiVincenzo and his former Villanova teammates—Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Mikal Bridges—who have now carved their own paths in the NBA. Reflecting on his enduring friendship and professional camaraderie, DiVincenzo shared, “My relationship with Jalen, that's my brother and my best friend.” Their synergy was palpable as their shared history provided a rich subtext to the game.
Karl-Anthony Towns' First Showdown Against Knicks
Adding another layer to the night was Karl-Anthony Towns’ encounter with the Knicks, his former team. This marked the first time Towns faced the Knicks donning Timberwolves jersey—a moment ripe with emotion and nostalgia. Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch equated the experience to “A death in the family in some ways. 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.”
An Absent Yet Revered Randle
Conspicuously absent from the game was Knicks star Julius Randle, who is currently rehabilitating from right shoulder surgery. Despite his physical absence, an emotional void was filled with a video tribute honoring both Randle and DiVincenzo, a testament to their lasting contributions and indelible impression on the Knicks community.
This preseason contest, much like the players involved, unearthed layers of stories, connections, and professional kinships, setting the stage for narratives that will develop further as the NBA season officially kicks off. Each play was more than a maneuver, carrying with it the weight of history, friendships, and the promise of emerging challenges. This encounter at Madison Square Garden may well serve as an early chapter in what promises to be an enthralling NBA saga.