LA Lakers receive immediate response from Timberwolves after enquiry over Donte DiVincenzo

NBA insider Brett Siegel shared that the Lakers reached out to the Minnesota Timberwolves about Donte DiVincenzo, but Minnesota quickly shut down any possibility of a deal.

“Los Angeles also reached out to the Minnesota Timberwolves about Donte DiVincenzo’s availability, but the Wolves were not interested at all,” Siegel reported, underlining how firmly Minnesota values the guard.

DiVincenzo offers what Los Angeles was looking for during their search. The defensive-minded guard provided secondary scoring while shooting efficiently from beyond the arc.

His 2024 numbers included 11.7 points, 3.6 assists, 3.7 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game on 39.7% shooting from deep.

Questions remain around Marcus Smart’s shooting but defence remains elite

Smart isn’t known for his offensive output, but he did post a 39.2% three-point rate in Washington last season. The Lakers are hoping he can keep that up, especially when Luka Doncic is off the floor.

Defence has always been Smart’s strong suit, and that hasn’t changed. His perimeter play is still a real strength, and it’s what the Lakers will lean on most.

The Celtics connection gives him a veteran presence this group could use. The Lakers were short on dependable playoff options last year, and Smart should help steady things.

Salary cap leaves Lakers short on additional moves

The Lakers are just over $1 million from the first-apron tax threshold, limiting their ability to add another high-profile player.

Smart’s arrival is likely the last major move unless the team makes additional changes to free up cap space.

The 14-man roster, anchored by LeBron James and Luka Doncic, offer plenty of depth and flexibility. Still, whether that translates into a championship run will depend on how well the group stays healthy and builds chemistry.

Both Smart and Ayton come with questions attached. The team’s success may ultimately hinge on how those gambles pay off.