As the NBA offseason continues to unfold, details of a previously rejected trade involving the Los Angeles Lakers have surfaced, shedding light on their ongoing efforts to strengthen the roster ahead of the 2025-26 season. While the Lakers have made notable additions in free agency, including the signings of Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, and Jake LaRavia, it appears they were also active in pursuing other potential difference-makers—one of them being Minnesota Timberwolves guard Donte DiVincenzo.
According to reports that emerged Monday, the Lakers had discussions centered around acquiring DiVincenzo, an experienced playoff contributor and NBA champion. Though the talks ultimately didn’t materialize into a deal, the interest alone speaks volumes about the Lakers’ approach this offseason: aggressive, strategic, and focused on building a well-rounded roster capable of competing in a stacked Western Conference.
Despite their free-agent signings, the Lakers suffered a key loss this summer as Dorian Finney-Smith opted to sign with the Houston Rockets. Finney-Smith’s departure left a hole in the team’s wing rotation, particularly on the defensive end, where his versatility and perimeter defense had proven vital. While Marcus Smart’s arrival brings a tenacious defensive edge to the backcourt, there’s no denying the Lakers were aiming to fortify their roster with more playoff-proven talent.
That’s where DiVincenzo would have fit in seamlessly. The 27-year-old guard has carved out a reputation as a gritty, high-IQ player who can knock down perimeter shots, handle the ball in spurts, and play above-average defense. He’s already contributed meaningfully to playoff runs with several successful franchises—the Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, and most recently, the Timberwolves. His championship experience with Milwaukee and adaptable style of play make him an ideal piece for any contending roster.
Though the trade was ultimately turned down—whether by Minnesota or the Lakers is unclear—it highlights how serious Los Angeles is about competing for a title. In a Western Conference where heavyweights like the Denver Nuggets, Houston Rockets, and Los Angeles Clippers have all made significant offseason moves, the pressure is on for the Lakers to keep pace. Standing pat wasn’t an option, and this attempted trade proves the front office is actively looking to add seasoned depth and versatility.
It’s worth noting that Donte DiVincenzo’s value around the league has quietly risen over the last few seasons. No longer just a role player, he’s emerged as a trusted member of playoff rotations, capable of playing both guard positions and defending multiple assignments on the perimeter. His ability to stretch the floor, make smart passes, and bring energy off the bench—or even in spot starts—would have given the Lakers another reliable contributor alongside stars Luka Dončić, LeBron James, and Anthony Davis.
While the deal didn’t happen, it’s safe to say the Lakers aren’t done looking for ways to improve. With training camp still weeks away, more moves could be on the horizon. But if nothing else, the DiVincenzo revelation shows that Los Angeles is leaving no stone unturned in its quest to return to championship glory.