In their search to replace the defensive versatility lost with Dorian Finney-Smith’s departure, the Los Angeles Lakers explored several trade and free-agent options this offseason. While Marcus Smart eventually joined the team, the Lakers initially pursued another high-impact two-way player: Donte DiVincenzo.
According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the Lakers reached out to the Minnesota Timberwolves to gauge DiVincenzo’s availability. The response was swift-Minnesota was not interested in dealing him.
DiVincenzo, who shot nearly 40% from beyond the arc and averaged 11.7 points, 3.6 assists, and 3.7 rebounds last season, has become a key rotation piece for the Timberwolves, especially after Nickeil Alexander-Walker’s exit in free agency.
Though the Lakers had a potential salary match in Gabe Vincent’s $11.5 million contract, it was clear the deal would have required additional assets. Los Angeles, however, has been reluctant to part with their only future first-round pick-either in 2031 or 2032-unless a true star is involved. That left them short of the Timberwolves’ asking price.
Why DiVincenzo was a target
At 28, DiVincenzo offers a coveted skill set: consistent perimeter shooting, off-ball defense, and playoff experience. After a breakout year with the New York Knicks during the 2023-24 season, where he posted a career-high 15.5 points per game and shot 40.1% from deep, the Italian-American guard has become a dependable 3-and-D wing.
That combination made him an attractive option for a Lakers team needing more floor spacing and defensive toughness.
The Timberwolves’ refusal to trade him wasn’t surprising. They reportedly considered DiVincenzo untouchable outside of a failed package deal that once involved Rudy Gobert and Kevin Durant, per ESPN’s Brian Windhorst.
With DiVincenzo off the table, the Lakers pivoted-and struck gold.
Luka Doncic’s role in smart signing
The Lakers landed Marcus Smart thanks, in part, to a key behind-the-scenes assist from their new franchise centerpiece, Luka Doncic. According to Windhorst, Doncic personally called Smart several times during the buyout window to help persuade him to join the team.
This was a notable shift for Doncic, who previously distanced himself from front-office affairs during his time in Dallas. His willingness to take an active recruiting role now highlights a growing leadership presence within the Lakers organization.
Los Angeles beat out strong offers from the Phoenix Suns and Milwaukee Bucks to sign Smart. His addition, alongside Deandre Ayton, represents a promising mix of defensive intensity and veteran leadership-further proof that Luka’s influence is already shaping the Lakers’ future in meaningful ways.
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