Donte DiVincenzo, the Knicks shooting guard, has shown significant improvement this season, but he will not be eligible for the NBA’s Most Improved Player award due to a league rule that requires players to have played in at least 65 games and logged at least 20 minutes per game to qualify. Despite nearly meeting the requirements, DiVincenzo fell short by three games, resulting in his ineligibility for the award. This rule also affects Knicks center Isaiah Hartenstein, who would have been ineligible for regular season awards due to the same issue with minutes played.
It is worth noting that DiVincenzo had 66 games in which he played 19 ½ minutes or more, but since the NBA does not round up minutes totals, he was unable to reach the necessary playing time requirements for the award. Despite this setback, DiVincenzo has made significant progress in his game this season, increasing his points per game from 9.4 to 15.5 and setting a franchise record with 283 3-pointers made during the season. He played in 81 of the Knicks’ 82 games and recorded a career-high 2,360 minutes on the court, showcasing his dedication and improvement throughout the season.
In a recent game against the Bulls, DiVincenzo played a career-high 53 minutes and expressed that he felt fine despite the extended playing time. He emphasized the team’s focus on the playoffs, noting that they are all locked in and ready to compete at a high level. The Knicks finished the regular season with a record of 50-32, clinching the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. As they prepare to begin their playoff run, DiVincenzo’s contributions and growth throughout the season will be crucial to their success in the postseason.
While DiVincenzo may not be eligible for the Most Improved Player award due to the league’s strict requirements, his development and impact on the Knicks’ success this season cannot be overlooked. As a key player for the team, his scoring, three-point shooting, and overall performance have been instrumental in their strong regular season finish and playoff positioning. Despite the disappointment of not being able to contend for the award, DiVincenzo’s dedication, hard work, and improvement as a player have been evident throughout the season, making him a valuable asset for the Knicks as they embark on their playoff journey.
