Many people questioned the New York Knicks signing of Donte DiVincenzo during the 2023 NBA offseason. Was this a bit of nepotism, wanting to reunite DiVincenzo with Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart and Ryan Arcidiacono, his teammates collegiately at Villanova? Or would DiVincenzo provide the team with a legitimate upgrade to their rotation?
Needing more consistent 3-point shooting in their lineup, DiVincenzo’s acquisition did make for a good fit. However, DiVincenzo, a 6’4” guard, was taking the place of Obi Toppin, who is a 6’9” power forward.
Some adjustments would need to be made by head coach Tom Thibodeau, who was sacrificing a lot of size. However, DiVincenzo rebounded at a similar rate as Toppin but was a more prolific shooter and stronger defender.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Donte DiVincenzo & New York Knicks Updates
The move has paid off handsomely for New York. Team president Leon Rose looks to have come away with yet another steal in free agency, as DiVincenzo has been one of the most valuable players in the NBA when considering his production and what he earns on his contract.
With injuries ridling their rotation, DiVincenzo is one of the players who has stepped up big-time over the last few weeks. He has been doing his best to replace the offensive punch lost with Julius Randle sidelined as he averaged 21.7 points per game in February and 23.4 since Randle went down with a separated shoulder.
He has been doing most of his damage in that time from behind the 3-point line. DiVincenzo has shattered his previous career high for 3-pointers made, which was 150 last season with the Golden State Warriors.
Through 60 games, he has made 192 this season. He is quickly moving up the Knicks’ single-season record book and has a chance to surpass the record of 241 set by Evan Fournier in the 2021-22 season.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Donte DiVincenzo & New York Knicks Updates
Alas, DiVincenzo has already made some impressive franchise history. On Sunday against the Cleveland Cavaliers, DiVincenzo made his 40th start of the 2023-24 NBA season. In those starts, he has made 148 3-pointers. As shared by Tommy Beer, that is the most 3-pointers made over any 40-game span in Knicks franchise history.
That is an impressive shooting display and one the Knicks need to see continue. DiVincenzo has done an excellent job of answering the call when his team needed him most as he has helped keep the team afloat and in position for home-court advantage in the NBA Playoffs.
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