The Minnesota Timberwolves got news of Anthony Edwards missing a few weeks due to an injury.  Hours later, the Phoenix Suns started to punish his absence. There were a lot of tired faces in the first half from Minnesota. Donte DiVincenzo appeared furious in the midst of it. The inability to help the team really got to his nerves.

During the third quarter, Chris Finch made substitutions, sending DiVincenzo to the bench. Nothing was going for the Wolves’ sharpshooter. So, while going back to the bench, Donte DiVincenzo ripped apart his jersey in half. Yes, he balled his firsts around the collar and just let it rip.

That’s the kind of night the 29-year-old had. He had 0 points, while shooting 0-8 from the field. Likewise, the Minnesota Timberwolves couldn’t build much of a lead. They were only leading by single digits for most of the night.

DiVincenzo wasn’t the only one who couldn’t convert his looks. The Timberwolves as a unit hit just nine threes in the game, shooting only 32.1%. That’s the kind of adversity expected from a team that just lost one of the best shooters in the league in Anthony Edwards. And DiVincenzo is going through a rough patch.

This was the second time in his last six games that the 29-year-old ended the game without scoring. It seemed like his efficient performance against the Thunder snapped his cold stretch. But that wasn’t the case. He has only scored 37 points over the last five games for the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Still, the pack managed to overcome their early struggles in the game. Although Donte DiVincenzo’s aim was off, there were several strong-minded Wolves players who helped the team leave the arena with a win.

Julius Randle and Co. answer Chris Finch’s expectations

Julius Randle led the way in Ant’s absence. The veteran forward scored 32 points to go with 7 rebounds and three steals in the 104-116 win. Rudy Gobert also played a huge hand, shining as a defensive stopper. He collected 19 rebounds and four blocks against the Suns. The Timberwolves shot 51.2% from the floor and scored 50 points in the paint.

They weren’t the only standout performers during the game. Head coach Chris Finch understood what he lost when Anthony Edwards went down. He is among the talented scorers who can close games out with his elite shot-making. The Wolves head coach never expected one person to take on his responsibilities.

“We don’t need one person to try to step in and fill the scoring. I think it’s just better if it’s dispersed throughout the lineup,” Finch said before the game.

Aside from Julius Randle, the Timberwolves had four other players scoring in double-digits. Ayo Dosumno, who replaced Ant in the starting lineup, scored 19. Bones Hyland and former 6MOTY Naz Reid combined for 33 points off the bench. The Timberwolves managed to build their lead up gradually as a result of a collective effort. It was also a much-needed result, having lost four of their previous five contests leading up to the clash.

It’s still just one game without Anthony Edwards. The Timberwolves’ offense has looked stagnant even with him on the floor. This 2-week period offers a chance for some players to build their confidence heading into the playoffs. Donte DiVincenzo had a challenging night, but the Wolves coaching staff will continue to trust him.

Aside from his experience playing with winning expectations, DiVincenzo has been decisive in the big moments. Adversity is only temporary. Hopefully, this win for the Timberwolves helps the team find some of its mojo as the regular season inches closer to its end.