The Minnesota Timberwolves were poised to be one of the most exciting teams in the league entering the 2026-27 season. After a 3-0 start, the Wolves looked promising until Anthony Edwards’ knee injury compromised their campaign. While Edwards’ injury has been harrowing for the team, the Timberwolves recently received some good news.

Minnesota Timberwolves veteran guard Donte DiVincenzo has been sidelined since the first round of the playoffs after tearing his Achilles tendon. Given that he sustained his injury in April of this year, there was not much optimism regarding his availability for the 2026-27 season. On a positive note, however, a doctor confirmed that the veteran guard would make his comeback.

In a recent video released by the Timberwolves, Donte DiVincenzo’s doctor shared an extremely promising update on the guard’s recovery journey, stating:

“We can easily say you’re on schedule, if not certainly ahead of schedule through strength and all the numbers. Don’t dismiss the mental aspect of this. I mean, you’re doing nothing but good. It’s important that you’re at least with the team. It’s good that they see you and be a part of it. Mentally, for you, it’s important.”

“When this happened, the goal was to be back this season,” the doctor continued. “That’s not even a question. When you go back, you guys, the team, but it’s mostly when you feel like you’re ready. When you feel normal.”

Donte DiVincenzo’s injury left him in a fairly vulnerable position entering the offseason. With Minnesota undergoing a significant roster overhaul, there was virtually no certainty about DiVincenzo’s future with the team.

In light of this, the recent update, along with Minnesota’s commitment to keeping him, is quite heartwarming. But how desperately do the Timberwolves need Donte DiVincenzo to return?

 

The Wolves Will Need Donte DiVincenzo Back Soon

It goes without saying that even though there is some certainty surrounding Donte DiVincenzo’s return this season, there is no clear timeline on when he will be back. Given the current circumstances, this isn’t favorable for the Timberwolves.

After their 3-0 start to the season, the Wolves have looked slightly rattled. Since Anthony Edwards has been ruled out, the Wolves have gone 1-2. In isolation, this isn’t too concerning. Still, when factoring in that the superstar is likely to miss up to two months of action, the forecast isn’t very promising, especially considering the team’s title-contending aspirations.

In this regard, having a player like Donte DiVincenzo back in the lineup could be a major boost for Minnesota.

DiVincenzo was certainly an asset for the Wolves last season. While his versatility as a secondary playmaker positioned him as a key piece on the roster, his defensive upside and perimeter shooting ability made him one of their most impactful players.

In 82 appearances last year, Donte DiVincenzo averaged 12.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.3 steals per game while shooting 40.6% from the field and 37.9% from three-point range. Although his scoring production dipped in the postseason, coming down to 10.8 points per game, the guard remained productive, posting 3.8 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.8 steals per game.

As things stand, the Wolves possess remarkable guard depth. With players like Bones Hyland and Ayo Dosunmu shoring up the rotation, Minnesota has the tools to remain competitive. But when considering what DiVincenzo brings to the table, the Wolves will certainly hope he returns sooner rather than later to keep their chances of contending alive.